Clarcor (CLC) 10-K 26 Jan 15 2014 FY Annual report Financial data

Document_and_Entity_Informatio

Document and Entity Information Document (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Nov. 29, 2014	Jan. 20, 2015	31-May-14
Document and Entity Information [Abstract]
Entity Registrant Name	CLARCOR INC.
Entity Central Index Key	20740
Current Fiscal Year End Date	-18
Entity Filer Category	Large Accelerated Filer
Document Type	10-K
Document Period End Date	29-Nov-14
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2014
Document Fiscal Period Focus	FY
Amendment Flag	FALSE
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		50,213,428
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	Yes
Entity Voluntary Filers	No
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Entity Public Float			$2,938,211,151

Consolidated_Statement_of_Earn

Consolidated Statement of Earnings (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Nov. 29, 2014	Nov. 30, 2013	Dec. 01, 2012
Income Statement [Abstract]
Net sales	$1,512,854	$1,130,770	$1,121,765
Cost of sales	1,015,819	760,561	741,433
Gross profit	497,035	370,209	380,332
Selling and administrative expenses	286,607	195,593	197,618
Operating profit	210,428	174,616	182,714
Other income (expense):
Interest expense	-3,700	-615	-527
Interest income	420	690	600
Other, net	4,415	-391	210
Total other income (expense)	1,135	-316	283
Earnings before income taxes	211,563	174,300	182,997
Provision for income taxes	67,380	55,950	59,657
Net earnings	144,183	118,350	123,340
Net earnings attributable to noncontrolling interests, net of tax	-99	-274	-354
Net earnings attributable to CLARCOR Inc.	$144,084	$118,076	$122,986
Net earnings per common share attributable to CLARCOR Inc. - Basic (in dollars per share)	$2.86	$2.36	$2.45
Net earnings per common share attributable to CLARCOR Inc. - Diluted (in dollars per share)	$2.83	$2.34	$2.42
Weighted average number of shares outstanding - Basic (in shares)	50,405,549	49,988,577	50,285,480
Weighted average number of shares outstanding - Diluted (in shares)	50,871,249	50,538,947	50,882,191

Consolidated_Statements_of_Com

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Earnings (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Nov. 29, 2014	Nov. 30, 2013	Dec. 01, 2012
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net earnings	$144,183	$118,350	$123,340
Pension and other postretirement benefits —
Pension and other postretirement benefits liability adjustments	-12,434	33,315	-10,240
Pension and other postretirement benefits liability adjustments tax amounts	4,645	-12,286	4,006
Pension and other postretirement benefits liability adjustments, net of tax	-7,789	21,029	-6,234
Foreign currency translation —
Translation adjustments	-16,477	918	-1,085
Translation adjustments tax amounts	0	0	0
Translation adjustments, net of tax	-16,477	918	-1,085
Comprehensive earnings	119,917	140,297	116,021
Comprehensive earnings attributable to non-redeemable noncontrolling interests	-184	-245	-155
Comprehensive loss (earnings) attributable to redeemable noncontrolling interests	249	-82	-197
Comprehensive earnings attributable to CLARCOR Inc.	$119,982	$139,970	$115,669

Consolidated_Balance_Sheets

Consolidated Balance Sheets (USD $)	Nov. 29, 2014	Nov. 30, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$94,064	$411,562
Restricted cash	0	763
Accounts receivable, less allowance for losses of $10,811 for 2014 and $9,183 for 2013	305,580	224,829
Inventories	274,718	218,786
Deferred income taxes	37,749	25,313
Income taxes receivable	0	1,000
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	16,796	9,868
Total current assets	728,907	892,121
Property, plant and equipment, at cost, less accumulated depreciation	288,356	208,953
Goodwill	507,172	241,299
Acquired intangibles, less accumulated amortization	347,578	89,881
Other noncurrent assets	16,756	16,589
Total assets	1,888,769	1,448,843
Current liabilities:
Current portion of long-term debt	233	50,223
Accounts payable	97,885	79,164
Accrued liabilities	120,036	78,374
Income taxes payable	6,226	0
Total current liabilities	224,380	207,761
Long-term debt, less current portion	411,330	116,413
Long-term pension and postretirement healthcare benefits liabilities	33,266	19,792
Deferred income taxes	104,250	64,415
Other long-term liabilities	8,853	5,753
Total liabilities	782,079	414,134
Contingencies (Note L)
Redeemable noncontrolling interests	1,587	1,836
SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
Preferred, par value $1, authorized 5,000,000 shares, none issued	0	0
Common, par value $1, authorized 120,000,000 shares, issued 50,204,497 for 2014 and 50,370,541 for 2013	50,204	50,371
Capital in excess of par value	10,644	22,278
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	-54,080	-29,814
Retained earnings	1,097,292	989,013
Total CLARCOR Inc. equity	1,104,060	1,031,848
Noncontrolling interests	1,043	1,025
Total shareholders' equity	1,105,103	1,032,873
Total liabilities and shareholders' equity	$1,888,769	$1,448,843

Consolidated_Balance_Sheets_Pa

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parentheticals) (USD $)	Nov. 29, 2014	Nov. 30, 2013
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified
Statement of Financial Position [Abstract]
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable, Current	$10,811	$9,183
Preferred Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share (in dollars per share)	$1	$1
Preferred Stock, Shares Authorized	5,000,000	5,000,000
Preferred Stock, Shares Issued	0	0
Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share (in dollars per share)	$1	$1
Common Stock, Shares Authorized	120,000,000	120,000,000
Common Stock, Shares, Issued	50,204,497	50,370,541

Consolidated_Statements_of_Sha

Consolidated Statements of Shareholders' Equity (USD $)	Total	Common Stock [Member]	Capital in Excess of Par Value [Member]	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Earnings (Loss) [Member]	Retained Earnings [Member]	CLARCOR Inc. [Member]	Non-redeemable noncontrolling interests [Member]	Stock Options [Member]	Stock Options [Member]	Stock Options [Member]	Restricted Stock [Member]	Restricted Stock [Member]	Restricted Stock [Member]
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified									Capital in Excess of Par Value [Member]	CLARCOR Inc. [Member]		Capital in Excess of Par Value [Member]	CLARCOR Inc. [Member]
Stockholders' equity, including portion attributable to noncontrolling interest, beginning of period at Dec. 03, 2011	$835,558	$50,145	$19,453	($44,391)	$809,520	$834,727	$831
Common stock, shares outstanding, beginning of period at Dec. 03, 2011		50,144,928
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Net earnings (excludes redeemable noncontrolling interests)	123,101				122,986	122,986	115
Other comprehensive earnings (loss) (excludes redeemable noncontrolling interests)	-7,277			-7,317		-7,317	40
Stock options exercised, shares		248,374						353,793
Stock options exercised, value	3,682	248	3,434			3,682
Tax benefit								2,007	2,007	2,007
Issuance and expense of stock under award plans, shares		52,316
Issuance and expense of stock under award plans, value	1,868	53	1,815			1,868
Purchase and retire stock, shares	-792,881	-792,881
Purchase and retire stock, value	-37,320	-793	-31,516		-5,011	-37,320
Stock option expense, value	4,997		4,997			4,997
Other	125		-190		315	125
Cash dividends	-24,911				-24,911	-24,911
Stockholders' equity, including portion attributable to noncontrolling interest, end of period at Dec. 01, 2012	901,830	49,653	0	-51,708	902,899	900,844	986
Common stock, shares outstanding, end of period at Dec. 01, 2012		49,652,737
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Net earnings (excludes redeemable noncontrolling interests)	118,333				118,076	118,076	257
Other comprehensive earnings (loss) (excludes redeemable noncontrolling interests)	21,882			21,894		21,894	-12
Stock options exercised, shares		1,128,310						1,191,752
Stock options exercised, value	32,800	1,128	31,672			32,800
Tax benefit								7,231	7,231	7,231	1,280	1,280	1,280
Issuance and expense of stock under award plans, shares		123,594
Issuance and expense of stock under award plans, value	2,963	124	2,839			2,963
Purchase and retire stock, shares	-534,100	-534,100
Purchase and retire stock, value	-27,708	-534	-23,956		-3,218	-27,708
Stock option expense, value	3,212		3,212			3,212
Cash dividends	-28,950				-28,744	-28,744	-206
Stockholders' equity, including portion attributable to noncontrolling interest, end of period at Nov. 30, 2013	1,032,873	50,371	22,278	-29,814	989,013	1,031,848	1,025
Common stock, shares outstanding, end of period at Nov. 30, 2013		50,370,541
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Net earnings (excludes redeemable noncontrolling interests)	144,317				144,084	144,084	233
Other comprehensive earnings (loss) (excludes redeemable noncontrolling interests)	-24,315			-24,266		-24,266	-49
Stock options exercised, shares		322,473						322,473
Stock options exercised, value	10,738	322	10,416			10,738
Tax benefit								2,668	2,668	2,668	101	101	101
Issuance and expense of stock under award plans, shares		47,186
Issuance and expense of stock under award plans, value	2,488	47	2,441			2,488
Purchase and retire stock, shares	-535,703	-535,703
Purchase and retire stock, value	-32,822	-536	-32,286			-32,822
Stock option expense, value	5,026		5,026			5,026
Cash dividends	-35,971				-35,805	-35,805	-166
Stockholders' equity, including portion attributable to noncontrolling interest, end of period at Nov. 29, 2014	$1,105,103	$50,204	$10,644	($54,080)	$1,097,292	$1,104,060	$1,043
Common stock, shares outstanding, end of period at Nov. 29, 2014		50,204,497

Consolidated_Statements_of_Sha1

Consolidated Statements of Shareholders' Equity (Parentheticals) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Nov. 29, 2014	Aug. 30, 2014	31-May-14	Mar. 01, 2014	Nov. 30, 2013	Aug. 31, 2013	Jun. 01, 2013	Mar. 02, 2013	Nov. 29, 2014	Nov. 30, 2013	Dec. 01, 2012
Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract]
Cash dividends paid per common share (in dollars per share)	$0.20	$0.17	$0.17	$0.17	$0.17	$0.14	$0.14	$0.14	$0.71	$0.57	$0.50

Consolidated_Statements_of_Cas

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Nov. 29, 2014	Nov. 30, 2013	Dec. 01, 2012
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net earnings	$144,183	$118,350	$123,340
Adjustments to reconcile net earnings to net cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation	30,065	26,329	25,925
Amortization	20,362	5,904	5,890
Other noncash items	995	1,754	-26
Net loss (gain) on disposition of assets	67	3,862	-725
Bargain purchase gain	-2,815	0	0
Stock-based compensation expense	7,278	5,060	6,226
Excess tax benefit from stock-based compensation	-2,769	-8,528	-2,007
Deferred income taxes	911	1,216	9,272
Changes in assets and liabilities, net of business acquisitions:
Accounts receivable	-28,748	-11,044	-7,666
Inventories	-7,846	-7,826	-8,320
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	-7,004	-1,833	-329
Other noncurrent assets	-2,384	1,396	-2,836
Accounts payable, accrued liabilities and other liabilities	2,591	8,363	-5,650
Pension and postretirement healthcare liabilities, net	915	-20,616	-13,349
Income taxes	545	12,854	6,104
Net cash provided by operating activities	156,346	135,241	135,849
Cash flows from investing activities:
Restricted cash	1,339	-197	240
Business acquisitions, net of cash acquired	-595,328	0	-5,411
Payments for purchase of property, plant and equipment	-69,681	-44,651	-36,468
Proceeds from disposition of plant assets	491	3,373	534
Investment in affiliate	-1,073	-615	-1,023
Net cash used in investing activities	-664,252	-42,090	-42,128
Cash flows from financing activities:
Net (payments) borrowings under multicurrency revolving credit agreement	-50,000	50,000	0
Borrowings under term loan facility	315,000	100,000	0
Payments on term loan facility	-20,000	0	0
Payments on long-term debt, including business acquisition-related seller financing	-1,620	-4,037	-10,500
Payments of financing costs	-752	-298	-564
Sale of capital stock under stock option and employee purchase plans	12,076	35,047	6,415
Payments for repurchase of common stock	-32,822	-27,708	-37,320
Excess tax benefit from stock-based compensation	2,769	8,528	2,007
Dividend paid to noncontrolling interests	-166	-206	0
Cash dividends paid	-35,805	-28,744	-24,911
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities	188,680	132,582	-64,873
Net effect of exchange rate changes on cash	1,728	333	649
Net change in cash and cash equivalents	-317,498	226,066	29,497
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period	411,562	185,496	155,999
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period	94,064	411,562	185,496
Cash paid during the period for interest	3,028	374	397
Cash paid during the period for income taxes, net of refunds	$67,534	$42,602	$43,821

Basis_of_Presentation_and_Sign

Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies	12 Months Ended
	Nov. 29, 2014
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies	BASIS OF PRESENTATION AND SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
	Principles of Consolidation
	CLARCOR Inc. and its subsidiaries (collectively, the “Company” or “CLARCOR”) is a global provider of filtration products, filtration systems and services, and consumer and industrial packaging products.  As discussed further in Note O, the Company has three reportable segments: Engine/Mobile Filtration, Industrial/Environmental Filtration and Packaging.  The Consolidated Financial Statements include all domestic and foreign subsidiaries that were more than 50% owned and controlled as of each respective reporting period presented.  All intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated.
	Accounting Period
	The Company's fiscal year-end is the Saturday closest to November 30, typically resulting in a fifty-two week year, but occasionally giving rise to an additional week, resulting in a fifty-three week year.  The fiscal years ended November 29, 2014, November 30, 2013 and December 1, 2012 were comprised of fifty-two weeks.  For clarity of presentation in the Consolidated Financial Statements, all fiscal years are shown to begin as of December 1 and end as of November 30.
	Use of Management's Estimates
	The preparation of the financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”) requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent liabilities at the date of the financial statements, and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period.  Actual results will differ from those estimates.
	Foreign Currency Translation and Transactions
	Financial statements of foreign subsidiaries are translated into U.S. Dollars at current rates, except that revenues, costs, expenses and cash flows are translated at average rates during each reporting period and equity accounts are translated at historical rates.  Net exchange gains or losses resulting from the translation of foreign financial statements are presented in the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Earnings. Transaction gains and losses that arise from exchange rate fluctuations on transactions denominated in a currency other than the functional currency are included in the results of operations as incurred. Other, net, included in Other income (expense), includes net foreign currency transaction gains (losses) of $1,251, $(520), and $(847) in fiscal years 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.
	Cash and Cash Equivalents and Restricted Cash
	Highly liquid investments with an original maturity of three months or less when purchased and that are readily saleable are considered to be cash and cash equivalents.  Restricted cash represents funds held in escrow and cash balances held by banks as collateral for certain guarantees of overseas subsidiaries.  Restricted cash classified as current corresponds to funds held in escrow that will be used within one year or guarantees that expire within one year.  The Company also has $1,294 and $1,896 of noncurrent restricted cash recorded in Other noncurrent assets as of November 30, 2014 and 2013, respectively, corresponding to guarantees and escrow agreements that expire longer than one year from the dates of the Consolidated Balance Sheets.
	Cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash represent financial instruments with potential credit risk.  The Company mitigates the risk by investing the assets with institutions it believes to be financially sound.
	Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities
	The Company is exposed to various market risks that arise from transactions entered into in the normal course of business, including market risks associated with changes in foreign currency exchange rates and changes in interest rates. The Company may make use of derivative instruments to manage certain such risks, including derivatives designated as accounting hedges and/or those utilized as economic hedges which are not designated as accounting hedges. The Company does not hold or issue derivatives for trading or speculative purposes.
	All derivatives are recorded at fair value in the Consolidated Balance Sheets. Each derivative is designated as either a fair value hedge or remains undesignated. Changes in the fair value of derivatives that are designated and effective as fair value hedges are recognized currently in net income. These changes are offset in net income to the extent the hedge was effective by fair value changes related to the risk being hedged on the hedged item. Changes in fair value of undesignated hedges are recognized currently in net income. All ineffective changes in derivative fair values are recognized currently in net income.
	The Company formally documents all relationships between designated hedging instruments and hedged items as well as its risk management objective and strategy for undertaking hedge transactions. Both at inception and on an ongoing basis the hedging instrument is assessed as to its effectiveness. If and when a derivative is determined not to be highly effective as a hedge, or the underlying hedge transaction is no longer likely to occur, the hedge designation is removed, or the derivative is terminated, the hedge accounting discussed above is discontinued. Further information related to derivatives and hedging activities is included in Note F of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
	Accounts Receivable and Allowance for Losses
	Trade accounts receivable are recorded at the invoiced amount and do not bear interest.  Trade accounts receivable represent financial instruments with potential credit risk.  The allowance for losses is the Company’s best estimate of the amount of probable credit losses in its existing accounts receivable.  The Company determines the allowance based on economic conditions in the industries to which the Company sells and on historical experience by evaluating specific customer accounts for risk of loss, fluctuations in amounts owed and current payment trends.  The allowances provided are estimates that may be impacted by economic and market conditions which could have an effect on future allowance requirements and results of operations.  The Company reviews its allowance for doubtful accounts monthly.  Past due balances over ninety days and over a specified amount are reviewed individually for collectability.  Account balances are charged off against the allowance when it is probable the receivable will not be recovered.
	Inventories
	Inventories are valued at the lower of cost or market primarily determined on the first-in, first-out (“FIFO”) method of inventory costing, which approximates current cost.  The Company periodically assesses its inventories for potential excess, slow movement and obsolescence and adjusts inventory values accordingly.  Inventories are summarized as follows:
		2014				2013
	Raw materials	$	101,848			$	80,741
	Work in process	41,729				34,402
	Finished products	131,141				103,643
		$	274,718			$	218,786
	Property, Plant and Equipment
	Depreciation is determined by the straight-line method for financial statement purposes and by the accelerated method for tax purposes.  The provision for depreciation is based on the estimated useful lives of the assets (15 to 40 years for buildings and improvements, the shorter of the asset life or the life of the lease for leasehold improvements and leased equipment and 3 to 15 years for machinery and equipment).  It is the Company’s policy to capitalize the cost of renewals and betterments and to charge to expense the cost of current maintenance and repairs.  When property or equipment is retired or otherwise disposed of, the net book value of the asset is removed from the Company’s books and the resulting gain or loss is reflected in operating profit.
	Plant assets classified as Assets held for sale are initially measured at the lesser of the assets’ carrying amount or the fair value less costs to sell.  Gains or losses are recognized for any subsequent changes in the fair value less cost to sell; however, gains are only recognized to the extent of cumulative losses previously recognized.  Plant assets classified as Assets held for sale are not depreciated. The Company had no plant assets classified as held for sale as of November 30, 2014 and 2013, respectively.
	Goodwill and Acquired Intangible Assets
	The Company recognizes the excess of the cost of an acquired entity over the net amount assigned to assets acquired and liabilities assumed as goodwill.  Goodwill is tested for impairment at the reporting unit level on an annual basis during the fourth quarter and any time events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of goodwill and acquired intangible assets might not be recoverable.  Impairment losses would be recognized whenever the implied fair value of goodwill is less than its carrying value.
	The Company recognizes an acquired intangible asset apart from goodwill whenever the asset arises from contractual or other legal rights, or whenever it is capable of being separated or divided from the acquired entity and sold, transferred, licensed, rented or exchanged, either individually or in combination with a related contract, asset or liability.  An intangible asset other than goodwill is amortized over its estimated useful life unless that life is determined to be indefinite.  Most of the Company’s trade names and trademarks have indefinite useful lives and are subject to impairment testing.  All other acquired intangible assets, including patents which have an average 14 year life, and other identifiable intangible assets with original lives ranging from 1 to 30 years, are being amortized using the straight-line method over the estimated periods to be benefited.  The Company reviews the lives of its definite-lived intangible assets at least annually during the fourth quarter, and if necessary, impairment losses are recognized if the carrying amount of an intangible subject to amortization is not recoverable from expected future cash flows and its carrying amount exceeds its fair value.
	Impairment of Long-Lived Assets
	The Company determines any impairment losses based on underlying cash flows related to specific groups of acquired long-lived assets, including plant assets, associated identifiable intangible assets and goodwill, when events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable.  For the years ended November 30, 2014, 2013 and 2012, the Company had no significant impairment losses.
	Income Taxes
	The Company provides for income taxes and recognizes deferred tax liabilities and assets for the expected future tax consequences of temporary differences between the financial statement carrying amounts and the tax basis of assets and liabilities.   The Company does not provide deferred taxes on unremitted foreign earnings from certain foreign affiliates that are intended to be indefinitely reinvested to finance operations and expansion outside the United States.
	The Company accounts for uncertain tax positions in accordance with guidance issued by the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”).  This guidance applies broadly to all tax positions taken by a company, including decisions to not report income in a tax return or to classify a transaction as tax exempt.  The approach is a two-step benefit recognition model.  The amount of benefit to recognize is measured as the largest amount of tax benefit that is greater than 50% likely of being ultimately realized upon settlement.  The tax position is derecognized when it is no longer more likely than not of being sustained.  The Company recognizes interest and penalties related to unrecognized benefits in income tax expense.
	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss
	Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax, consists of foreign currency translation adjustments and pension related gains and losses, prior service costs and credits and any remaining transition amounts that have not yet been recognized through net periodic benefit costs.  Changes in Accumulated other comprehensive loss by component are as follows:
		Pension Benefits				Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments			Total
	Balance at November 30, 2013, net of tax	$	(29,878	)		$	64		$	(29,814	)
	Other comprehensive loss before reclassifications and tax	(15,085		)		(16,477		)	(31,562		)
	Tax benefit	5,565				—			5,565
	Other comprehensive loss before reclassifications, net of tax	(9,520		)		(16,477		)	(25,997		)
	Reclassifications, before tax	2,651			(a)	—			2,651
	Tax expense	(920		)		—			(920		)
	Reclassifications, net of tax	1,731				—			1,731
	Other comprehensive loss, net of tax	(7,789		)		(16,477		)	(24,266		)
	Balance at November 30, 2014, net of tax	$	(37,667	)		$	(16,413	)	$	(54,080	)
	(a) Includes amortization of prior service cost and net actuarial loss included in net periodic benefit cost (see Note J) that were reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss to selling and administrative expenses.
	Stock-based Compensation
	Stock-based employee compensation cost is recognized using the fair-value based method for all awards granted on or after the beginning of fiscal year 2006.  The Company issues stock option awards and restricted stock unit awards to employees and issues shares of common stock to non-employee directors under its stock-based incentive plans.  The fair value of each option grant is estimated on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option pricing model.  Compensation cost related to restricted stock units is recorded based on the market price of the Company’s common stock on the grant date.  The Company recognizes compensation expense from the date of grant on a straight-line basis over a four year period or to the date retirement eligibility is achieved, whichever is shorter.  For those who are already retirement eligible on the date of grant, compensation expense is recognized immediately.
	Revenue Recognition
	Revenue is recognized when product ownership and risk of loss have transferred to the customer or performance of services is complete and the Company has no remaining obligations regarding the transaction.  Estimated discounts, rebates and sales returns are recorded as a reduction of sales in the same period revenue is recognized.  Shipping and handling costs are recorded as revenue when billed to customers.  The related shipping and handling expenses are included in Cost of sales.
	The Company uses the percentage of completion accounting revenue recognition method for qualifying contracts under which products are manufactured to customer specifications.  Approximately $35,537, $42,002 and $34,466 of the Company’s total revenue for fiscal years 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively, was recognized under the percentage of completion accounting method.  Revenue is recognized on contracts utilizing the percentage of completion method based on costs incurred as a percentage of estimated total costs.  Revenue recognized on uncompleted contracts in excess of amounts billed to customers is reflected as a current asset.  Amounts billed to customers in excess of revenue recognized on uncompleted contracts are reflected as a current liability. When it is estimated that a contract will result in a loss, the entire amount of the estimated loss is accrued. The effect of revisions in costs and profit estimated for contracts is reflected in the accounting period in which the facts requiring the revisions become known.
	Product Warranties
	The Company provides for estimated warranty costs when the related products are recorded as sales or for specific items at the time existence of the claims is known and the amounts are reasonably determinable.
	Research and Development
	The Company charges research and development costs, relating to the development of new products or the improvement or redesign of its existing products, to expense when incurred.  These costs were approximately $18,102 in 2014, $11,334 in 2013 and $11,811 in 2012.
	Insurance
	Insurance coverage is obtained for certain property and casualty exposures, workers’ compensation and general liability, as well as risks that require insurance by law or contract.  The Company self-insures for certain other insurable risks, primarily employee medical coverage, which the Company carries insurance for certain losses above specified amounts.  Liabilities are determined using estimates, including actuarial where applicable, of the aggregate liability for claims incurred and an estimate of incurred but not reported claims, on an undiscounted basis.
	Guarantees
	At November 30, 2014 and 2013, the Company had letters of credit totaling $33,359 and $28,541, respectively, issued to various government agencies, primarily related to industrial revenue bonds, and to insurance companies and other entities in support of its obligations.  The Company believes that no payments will be required resulting from these obligations.
	In the ordinary course of business, the Company also provides routine indemnifications and other guarantees whose terms range in duration and often are not explicitly defined.  The Company does not believe these will have a material impact on the results of operations or financial condition of the Company.
	New Pronouncements
In February 2013, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued guidance to improve the reporting of reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive income ("AOCI"). The amendments do not change the current requirement for reporting net income or other comprehensive income in financial statements; however, the amendments require an entity to provide information about the amounts reclassified out of AOCI by component. In addition, an entity is required to present, either on the face of the statement where net income is presented or in the notes, significant amounts reclassified out of AOCI by the respective line items of net income, but only if the amount reclassified is required under U.S. GAAP to be reclassified to net income in its entirety in the same reporting period. For other amounts that are not required under U.S. GAAP to be reclassified in their entirety to net income, an entity is required to cross-reference to other disclosures required under U.S. GAAP that provide additional detail about those amounts. The guidance is effective for annual and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2012, although early adoption is permitted. The adoption of this guidance on December 1, 2013 did not have a material impact on the Consolidated Financial Statements. For additional information, refer to "Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss" above.
In April 2014, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update ("ASU") No. 2014-08, "Presentation of Financial Statements and Property, Plant and Equipment; Reporting Discontinued Operations and Disclosures of Disposals of Components of an Entity." ASU 2014-08 modifies the requirements for reporting discontinued operations. Under the amendments in ASU 2014-08, the definition of discontinued operation has been modified to only include those disposals of an entity that represent a strategic shift that has (or will have) a major effect on an entity's operations and financial results. ASU 2014-08 also expands the disclosure requirements for disposals that meet the definition of a discontinued operation and requires entities to disclose information about disposals of individually significant components that do not meet the definition of discontinued operations. ASU 2014-08 is effective for annual reporting periods, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2014 (fiscal year 2016 for the Company). The adoption of this update is not expected to have a material impact on the Company's Consolidated Financial Statements.
In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU No. 2014-09, "Revenue from Contracts with Customers." ASU 2014-09 is a comprehensive new revenue recognition model that requires a company to recognize revenue to depict the transfer of goods or services to a customer at an amount that reflects the consideration it expects to receive in exchange for those goods or services. ASU 2014-09 also requires additional disclosure about the nature, amount, timing and uncertainty of revenue and cash flows arising from customer contracts, including significant judgments and changes in judgments and assets recognized from costs incurred to obtain or fulfill a contract. ASU 2014-09 is effective for annual reporting periods, and interim periods within that period, beginning after December 15, 2016 (fiscal year 2018 for the Company) and early adoption is not permitted. Companies may use either a full retrospective or a modified retrospective approach to adopt ASU 2014-09. The Company has not yet determined the potential effects of the adoption of ASU 2014-09 on its Consolidated Financial Statements.

Business_Acquisitions_Investme

Business Acquisitions, Investments and Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests	12 Months Ended
	Nov. 29, 2014
Business Acquisitions, Investments and Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests [Abstract]
Business Acquisitions, Investments and Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests	BUSINESS ACQUISITIONS, INVESTMENTS AND REDEEMABLE NONCONTROLLING INTERESTS
	Business Acquisitions
	CLARCOR Engine Mobile Solutions
	On May 1, 2014, the Company acquired Stanadyne Corporation's diesel fuel filtration business (the “Stanadyne Business”) through the acquisition of the stock of Stanadyne Holdings, Inc. The business, which now operates as “CLARCOR Engine Mobile Solutions,” is a leading supplier of original equipment and replacement fuel filtration products, primarily for heavy-duty diesel engines used in off-road, agricultural and construction applications.
	CLARCOR Engine Mobile Solutions has approximately 200 employees and is headquartered in Windsor, Connecticut, with manufacturing operations in Washington, North Carolina. Its results are included as part of the Company’s Engine/Mobile Filtration segment from the date of acquisition. The purchase price paid was approximately $327,719 in cash (cash to Stanadyne Corporation of $327,719, net of $0 cash acquired), which the Company funded with cash on hand, a $315,000 term loan and $10,000 borrowed under the Company’s revolving credit agreement (see Note H).
	An allocation of the purchase price to the assets acquired and liabilities assumed was made based on available information and incorporating management’s best estimates. Assets acquired and liabilities assumed in the transaction were recorded at their estimated acquisition date fair values, while transaction costs associated with the acquisition were expensed as incurred. The Company is currently in the process of finalizing the valuation of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed. The Company expects to finalize the purchase price allocation within one year of the purchase date.
	The following table summarizes the estimated fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed at the date of acquisition of CLARCOR Engine Mobile Solutions:
	Accounts receivable		$	19,548
	Inventories		7,257
	Deferred income taxes		4,121
	Property, plant and equipment		10,176
	Goodwill		194,989
	Intangible assets		146,430
		Total assets acquired	382,521
	Current liabilities		8,963
	Other noncurrent liabilities		2,000
	Deferred income taxes		43,839
		Net assets acquired	$	327,719
	The Stanadyne Business was acquired to significantly increase CLARCOR’s presence in the design, manufacture and supply of original equipment diesel fuel filtration products and the related original equipment services aftermarket, while also providing enhanced scale and market presence to support growth for CLARCOR’s other Engine/Mobile Filtration businesses — including the heavy-duty fuel, oil, hydraulic and air filtration products manufactured and marketed by Baldwin Filters — through original equipment customers and services channels. Goodwill of $194,989 recorded in connection with the acquisition, which is not deductible for tax purposes, represents the estimated value of such future opportunities. A summary of the intangible assets acquired is shown in the following table:
		Estimated			Weighted average	Amortization
	Identifiable intangible assets	Value			Useful life	Method
	Customer relationships	$	135,250		13 years	Straight-line
	Developed technology	11,000			10 years	Straight-line
	Trademarks	180			Indefinite	Not amortized
		$	146,430
	Net sales and operating profit attributable to CLARCOR Engine Mobile Solutions from May 1, 2014 (the date of the closing of the acquisition) through November 30, 2014 were $65,701 and $11,604, respectively.
	CLARCOR Industrial Air
	On December 16, 2013, the Company acquired the Air Filtration business of General Electric Company’s (“GE”) Power and Water division through the acquisition of certain assets and the assumption of certain liabilities, as well as the acquisition of the stock of a subsidiary of GE. The business, which now operates as “CLARCOR Industrial Air”, was acquired to significantly increase the Company’s presence in air inlet filtration products for natural gas turbines and to expand the Company’s product offerings, technologies and customer base in industrial air filtration. CLARCOR Industrial Air employs approximately 700 people and is headquartered in Overland Park, Kansas, with manufacturing operations in Missouri and the United Kingdom. Its results are included as part of the Company’s Industrial/Environmental Filtration segment from the date of acquisition. The purchase price paid was approximately $260,312 in cash (cash to GE of $263,758, net of $3,446 cash acquired), which the Company funded with cash on hand, a $100,000 term loan and $50,000 of cash borrowed under the Company’s revolving credit agreement (see Note H).
	CLARCOR Industrial Air operates primarily in three markets — gas turbine filtration, industrial air filtration, and specialty membranes. In gas turbine filtration, CLARCOR Industrial Air designs and manufactures high performance inlet filter houses and replacement filter elements for gas turbines used in a wide range of applications, including on-shore power generation plants, on-shore and off-shore oil and gas platforms and pipelines, distributed power generation and commercial and military marine applications. In industrial air filtration, CLARCOR Industrial Air designs and manufactures high performance filter elements for use in a variety of industries, sold to a wide range of customers under various trade names. The specialty membrane business designs and manufactures high performance membranes for apparel and microfiltration.
	An allocation of the purchase price to the assets acquired and liabilities assumed was made based on available information and incorporating management’s best estimates. Assets acquired and liabilities assumed in the transaction were recorded at their estimated acquisition date fair values, while transaction costs associated with the acquisition were expensed as incurred. The Company is currently in the process of finalizing the valuations of assets acquired and liabilities assumed. The Company expects to finalize the purchase price allocation within one year of the purchase date.
	The following table summarizes the estimated fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed at the date of acquisition of CLARCOR Industrial Air:
	Accounts receivable		$	34,453
	Inventories		41,884
	Other current assets		837
	Property, plant and equipment		22,903
	Goodwill		74,324
	Intangible assets		133,020
		Total assets acquired	307,421
	Total liabilities		47,109
		Net assets acquired	$	260,312
	The Company believes the CLARCOR Industrial Air business provides it with a strong platform in the gas turbine filtration market from which to grow, both with respect to first-fit applications as well as the aftermarket, and a broad line of products, in-depth customer knowledge and service capabilities with which to grow in various industrial air filtration markets. Goodwill of $74,324 recorded in connection with the CLARCOR Industrial Air acquisition, which is deductible for tax purposes, represents the estimated value of such future opportunities. A summary of the intangible assets acquired, weighted-average useful lives and amortization methods is shown in the following table:
		Estimated			Weighted average	Amortization
	Identifiable intangible assets	Value			Useful life	Method
	Trade names	$	35,100		Indefinite	Not amortized
	Customer relationships	77,300			13 years	Straight-line
	Developed technology	19,900			13 years	Straight-line
	GE Transitional Trademark License	50			Less than 1 Year	Accelerated
	Backlog	670			Less than 1 Year	Accelerated
		$	133,020
	Net sales and operating profit attributable to CLARCOR Industrial Air from December 16, 2013 (the date of the closing of the acquisition) through November 30, 2014 were $226,709 and $13,984, respectively.
	Unaudited Pro Forma Results for CLARCOR giving effect to the acquisitions of CLARCOR Engine Mobile Solutions and CLARCOR Industrial Air
	The following unaudited pro forma information presents the combined results of operations of CLARCOR, CLARCOR Industrial Air and CLARCOR Engine Mobile Solutions as if both acquisitions had been completed on the first day of fiscal 2013. The pro forma information is presented for informational purposes only and does not purport to be indicative of the results of operations or future results that would have been achieved if the acquisitions and related borrowings had taken place at the beginning of fiscal 2013. The pro forma information combines the historical results of CLARCOR with the historical results of CLARCOR Industrial Air and CLARCOR Engine Mobile Solutions for the periods presented.
	Prior to acquisition by CLARCOR, the business now operated as CLARCOR Industrial Air was a wholly-owned business of GE’s Power and Water division, and the business now operated as CLARCOR Engine Mobile Solutions was a wholly-owned business of Stanadyne Corporation. As such, neither business was a stand-alone entity for financial reporting purposes. Accordingly, the historical operating results of CLARCOR Industrial Air and CLARCOR Engine Mobile Solutions may not be indicative of the results that might have been achieved, historically or in the future, if CLARCOR Industrial Air and CLARCOR Engine Mobile Solutions had been stand-alone entities.
	The unaudited pro forma results for the twelve months ended November 30, 2014 and November 30, 2013 include amortization charges for acquired intangible assets, and adjustments to depreciation expense, interest expense, transaction costs incurred, adjustments to cost of sales to reflect the estimated fair values of inventory at the acquisition date, other income and related tax effects. The unaudited pro forma results do not give effect to any synergies, operating efficiencies or cost savings that may result from these acquisitions. These pro forma amounts are based on an allocation of the purchase price to estimates of the fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed. The pro forma amounts include the Company’s determination of purchase accounting adjustments based on available information and certain assumptions that the Company believes are reasonable.
		Twelve Months Ended November 30, 2014											Twelve Months Ended November 30, 2013
		As reported			CLARCOR			CLARCOR			Pro forma		As reported		CLARCOR			CLARCOR			Pro forma
					Engine Mobile Solutions			Industrial Air							Engine Mobile Solutions			Industrial Air
	Net sales	$	1,512,854		$	46,837		$	15,422		$	1,575,113	$	1,130,770	$	105,744		$	222,546		$	1,459,060
	Operating profit	210,428			17,677		(a)	8,814		(b)	236,919		174,616		24,830		(c)	3,047		(d)	202,493
	Net earnings attributable to CLARCOR	144,084			10,485			6,551			161,120		118,076		13,789			1,703			133,568
	Diluted earnings per share	$	2.83		$	0.21		$	0.13		$	3.17	$	2.34	$	0.27		$	0.03		$	2.64
	(a)	Includes adjustments to remove transaction costs of $3,035 and cost of sales related to the step-up of inventory to its estimated acquisition-date fair value of $1,368, which have been pushed back to the twelve months ended November 30, 2013 for pro forma presentation. Also includes adjustments to intangible asset amortization, depreciation expense and interest expense.
	(b)	Includes adjustments to remove transaction costs of $2,089 and cost of sales related to the step-up of inventory to its estimated acquisition-date fair value of $4,342, which have been pushed back to the twelve months ended November 30, 2013 for pro forma presentation. Also includes adjustments to intangible asset amortization, depreciation expense and interest expense.
	(c)	Includes adjustments to push back transaction costs of $3,035 and cost of sales related to the step-up of inventory to its estimated acquisition-date fair value of $1,368. Also includes adjustments to intangible asset amortization, depreciation expense and interest expense.
(d)	Includes adjustments to push back transaction costs of $2,089 and cost of sales related to the step-up of inventory to its estimated acquisition-date fair value of $4,342. Also includes adjustments to intangible asset amortization, depreciation expense and interest expense.
Bekaert Business
On December 3, 2013, the Company acquired from NV Bekaert SA 100% of the outstanding shares of Bekaert Advanced Filtration SA (Belgium), 100% of the outstanding shares of PT Bekaert Advanced Filtration (Indonesia) and certain other assets in India, China and the U.S. (collectively, the “Bekaert Business”). The purchase price was approximately $7,297 in cash (net of cash acquired), which the Company paid with cash on hand.
The Bekaert Business has approximately 170 employees, and manufacturing facilities located in Belgium and Indonesia, as well as sales personnel in North and South America. The business is engaged in the manufacture and supply of engineered metal filters and systems used primarily in the polymer and plastics industry. The Bekaert Business was acquired to expand the Company’s technical capabilities, improve the Company's product offerings and help the Company continue to grow in Europe and in Asia. The business has been merged into the Company’s Purolator Advanced Filtration Group, headquartered in Greensboro, North Carolina. Its results are included as part of the Company’s Industrial/Environmental Filtration segment from the date of acquisition.
An allocation of the purchase price to the assets acquired and liabilities assumed was made based on available information and incorporating management’s best estimates. Assets acquired and liabilities assumed in the transaction were recorded at their estimated acquisition date fair values, while transaction costs associated with the acquisition were expensed as incurred. Acquired finite-lived intangible assets of $2,057 were recorded in connection with the purchase. The $2,815 excess of the fair value of the identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed over the purchase price was recorded as a bargain purchase gain and is included in “Other, net” income in the Consolidated Statements of Earnings. Prior to recording this gain, the Company reassessed its identification of assets acquired and liabilities assumed, including the use of independent valuation experts to assist the Company in appraising the personal property, real property and intangible assets acquired. The Company believes there were several factors that contributed to this transaction resulting in a bargain purchase gain, including the business falling outside of NV Bekaert SA’s core activities and historical losses incurred by the business. The Company expects to finalize the purchase price allocation within one year of the purchase date.
Net sales and operating loss attributable to the Bekaert Business for the year ended November 30, 2014 were $13,926 and $21, respectively.
Modular
On May 9, 2012, the Company acquired 100% of the shares of Modular Engineering Company Pty Ltd. ("Modular") for $7,875. An initial payment of $5,237 was made at closing with the remaining purchase price, and interest thereon, to be paid in two installments on the first and second anniversaries of the original closing date. The first installment of $1,530 was made on May 8, 2013 and the second installment of $1,391 was paid on May 8, 2014.
Investments
The Company owns 30% of BioProcess H2O LLC (“BPH”), a Rhode Island-based manufacturer of industrial waste water and water reuse filtration systems, with an original cost of $4,000.  During the years ended November 30, 2014, 2013, and 2012 the Company did not make any additional investments. Under the terms of the agreement with BPH, the Company has the right, but not the obligation, to acquire additional ownership shares and eventually complete ownership of BPH over several years at a price based on, among other factors, BPH’s operating income.  The investment, with a carrying amount of $2,918 and $3,097, at November 30, 2014 and 2013, respectively, included in Other noncurrent assets in the Consolidated Balance Sheets, is being accounted for under the equity method of accounting.  The carrying amount is adjusted each period to recognize the Company’s share of the earnings or losses of BPH based on the percentage of ownership, as well as the receipt of any dividends.  The Company did not receive any dividends from BPH during the years ended November 30, 2014, 2013, or 2012.  The equity investment is periodically reviewed for indicators of impairment.
The Company also owns a 14.85% share in BioProcess Algae LLC (“Algae”), a Delaware-based company developing technology to grow and harvest algae which can be used to consume carbon dioxide and also be used as a renewable energy source.  During the years ended November 30, 2014, 2013 and 2012, the Company invested an additional $1,073, $392 and $1,114, respectively, all of which the Company had funded as of November 30, 2014. The investment, with a carrying amount of $3,277 and $2,204, at November 30, 2014 and November 30, 2013, respectively, included in Other noncurrent assets, is being accounted for under the cost method of accounting.  Under the cost method, the Company recognizes dividends as income when received and reviews the cost basis of the investment for impairment if factors indicate that a decrease in value of the investment has occurred.  During the years ended November 30, 2014, 2013, and 2012 the Company received dividends of $0, $0, and $1,200 from Algae, which are included in Other, net, in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Earnings.
Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests
In March 2007, the Company acquired an 80% ownership share in Sinfa SA ("SINFA"), a manufacturer of automotive and heavy-duty engine filters based in Casablanca, Morocco, which is included in the Engine/Mobile Filtration segment.  As part of the purchase agreement, the Company and the noncontrolling owners each have an option to require the purchase of the remaining 20% ownership shares by the Company after December 31, 2012 which would result in SINFA becoming a wholly owned subsidiary.  As of November 30, 2014, neither the Company nor the noncontrolling interest owners had exercised the purchase option. The remaining 20% of SINFA owned by the noncontrolling owners has been reported as Redeemable noncontrolling interests and classified as mezzanine equity in the Consolidated Balance Sheets.  The Redeemable noncontrolling interests is reflected at its carrying value, which is greater than its estimated redemption price. The Redeemable noncontrolling interests will be accreted to the redemption price, through equity, at the point at which the redemption becomes probable. The Company has not recorded any accretion to date.

Property_Plant_and_Equipment

Property, Plant and Equipment	12 Months Ended
	Nov. 29, 2014
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]
Property, Plant and Equipment	PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT
	Property, plant and equipment included the following assets at November 30, 2014 and 2013:
		2014			2013
	Land	$	12,330		$	9,444
	Buildings and building fixtures	154,296			119,207
	Machinery and equipment	428,530			388,669
	Construction in process	50,764			24,420
		645,920			541,740
	Accumulated depreciation	(357,564		)	(332,787		)
		$	288,356		$	208,953
	At November 30, 2014 and 2013, additions to property, plant and equipment totaling $3,135 and $1,079, respectively, were included in Accounts payable and $1,983 and $621, respectively, were included in Accrued liabilities.  During the years ended November 30, 2014 and 2013, additions to property, plant and equipment of $156 and $270, respectively, were acquired under capitalized leases.

Goodwill_and_Acquired_Intangib

Goodwill and Acquired Intangible Assets	12 Months Ended
	Nov. 29, 2014
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Goodwill and Acquired Intangible Assets	GOODWILL AND ACQUIRED INTANGIBLE ASSETS
	The following table reconciles the activity for goodwill by segment for fiscal years 2014 and 2013.  All goodwill is stated on a gross basis, as the Company has not recorded any impairment charges against goodwill.
		Engine/Mobile			Industrial/			Packaging		Total
		Filtration			Environmental
					Filtration
	November 30, 2012	$	21,593		$	220,331		$	—	$	241,924
	Acquisitions	—			—			—		—
	Currency translation adjustments	275			(900		)	—		(625		)
	November 30, 2013	$	21,868		$	219,431		$	—	$	241,299
	Acquisitions	194,989			74,324			—		269,313
	Currency translation adjustments	(743		)	(2,697		)	—		(3,440		)
	November 30, 2014	$	216,114		$	291,058		$	—	$	507,172
	The Company completed an annual impairment review at each fiscal year-end and concluded there was no impairment of goodwill.  In performing the impairment reviews, the Company estimated the fair values of the reporting units using a present value method that discounted future cash flows.  Such valuations are sensitive to assumptions associated with cash flow growth, discount rates, terminal value and the aggregation of reporting unit components.  The Company further assessed the reasonableness of these estimates by considering relevant market multiples.
	The following table summarizes acquired intangible assets by segment.  Other acquired intangible assets include parts manufacturer regulatory approvals, proprietary technology, patents and noncompete agreements.
		Engine/Mobile			Industrial/			Packaging		Total
		Filtration			Environmental
					Filtration
	November 30, 2014
	Indefinite Lived Intangibles:
	Trademarks - indefinite lived	$	783		$	76,150		$	—	$	76,933
	Finite Lived Intangibles:
	Trademarks - finite lived, gross	$	294		$	488		$	—	$	782
	Accumulated amortization	(119		)	(342		)	—		(461		)
	Trademarks - finite lived, net	$	175		$	146		$	—	$	321
	Customer relationships, gross	$	139,551		$	121,741		$	—	$	261,292
	Accumulated amortization	(8,109		)	(29,285		)	—		(37,394		)
	Customer relationships, net	$	131,442		$	92,456		$	—	$	223,898
	Other acquired intangibles, gross	$	11,243		$	60,958		$	—	$	72,201
	Accumulated amortization	(884		)	(24,891		)	—		(25,775		)
	Other acquired intangibles, net	$	10,359		$	36,067		$	—	$	46,426
	Total finite lived intangible assets, net	$	141,976		$	128,669		$	—	$	270,645
	Acquired intangible assets, less accumulated amortization	$	142,759		$	204,819		$	—	$	347,578
		Engine/Mobile			Industrial/			Packaging		Total
		Filtration			Environmental
					Filtration
	November 30, 2013
	Indefinite Lived Intangibles:
	Trademarks - indefinite lived	$	603		$	42,058		$	—	$	42,661
	Finite Lived Intangibles:
	Trademarks - finite lived, gross	$	307		$	488		$	—	$	795
	Accumulated amortization	(104		)	(329		)	—		(433		)
	Trademarks - finite lived, net	$	203		$	159		$	—	$	362
	Customer relationships, gross	$	4,309		$	45,244		$	—	$	49,553
	Accumulated amortization	(1,870		)	(20,161		)	—		(22,031		)
	Customer relationships, net	$	2,439		$	25,083		$	—	$	27,522
	Other acquired intangibles, gross	$	243		$	39,894		$	—	$	40,137
	Accumulated amortization	(243		)	(20,558		)	—		(20,801		)
	Other acquired intangibles, net	$	—		$	19,336		$	—	$	19,336
	Total finite lived intangible assets, net	$	2,642		$	44,578		$	—	$	47,220
	Acquired intangible assets, less accumulated amortization	$	3,245		$	86,636		$	—	$	89,881
	The Company performed annual impairment tests on its indefinite-lived intangible assets at each fiscal year-end using the relief-from-royalty method to determine the fair value of its trademarks and trade names.  There was no impairment as the fair value was greater than the carrying value for these indefinite-lived intangible assets as of these dates.  In addition, the Company reassessed the useful lives and classification of identifiable finite-lived intangible assets at each year-end and determined that they continue to be appropriate.
	The following tables summarize actual amortization expense for the past three fiscal years and estimated amortization expense for the next five fiscal years.
	Amortization expense for the years ended:
	2014	$	20,362
	2013	5,904
	2012	5,890
	Estimated amortization expense for the next five years:
	2015	$	24,400
	2016	24,269
	2017	24,031
	2018	23,368
	2019	23,221

Fair_Value_Measurements

Fair Value Measurements	12 Months Ended
	Nov. 29, 2014
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair Value Measurements	FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS
	Fair Value Measurements
	The Company measures certain assets and liabilities at fair value as discussed throughout the notes to its Consolidated Financial Statements.  Fair value is the exchange price that would be received for an asset or paid to transfer a liability, an exit price, in the principal or most advantageous market for the asset or liability in an orderly transaction between market participants.  Fair value measurements are categorized in a hierarchy based upon the observability of inputs used in valuation techniques.  Observable inputs are the highest level and reflect market data obtained from independent sources, while unobservable inputs are the lowest level and reflect internally developed market assumptions.  The Company classifies fair value measurements by the following hierarchy:
	•	Level 1 – Quoted active market prices for identical assets;
	•	Level 2 – Significant other observable inputs, such as quoted prices for similar (but not identical) instruments in active markets, quoted prices for identical or similar instruments in markets which are not active and model determined valuations in which all significant inputs or significant value-drivers are observable in active markets; and
	•	Level 3 – Significant unobservable inputs, such as model determined valuations in which one or more significant inputs or significant value-drivers are unobservable.
	Assets or liabilities that have recurring fair value measurements are shown below:
		Fair Value Measurements at Reporting Date
		Total		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3
	November 30, 2014
	Restricted trust, included in Other noncurrent assets
	Mutual fund investments - equities	$	437	$	437	$	—	$	—
	Mutual fund investments - bonds	442		442		—		—
	Cash and equivalents	14		14		—		—
	Total restricted trust	$	893	$	893	$	—	$	—
	Foreign exchange contracts, included in Prepaid expenses and other current assets	$	362	$	—	$	362	$	—
	Foreign exchange contracts, included in Accrued liabilities	$	367			$	367
	November 30, 2013
	Restricted trust, included in Other noncurrent assets
	Mutual fund investments - equities	$	593	$	593	$	—	$	—
	Mutual fund investments - bonds	400		400		—		—
	Cash and equivalents	31		31		—		—
	Total restricted trust	$	1,024	$	1,024	$	—	$	—
	There were no changes in the fair value determination methods or significant assumptions used in those methods during the year ended November 30, 2014. There were no transfers between Level 1 and Level 2 and there were no transfers into or out of Level 3 during the years ended November 30, 2014 and 2013.  The Company's policy is to recognize transfers on the actual date of transfer. The restricted trust, which is used to fund certain payments for the Company’s U.S. combined nonqualified pension plans, consists of actively traded equity and bond funds.
	The Company is liable for a contingent earn-out established in connection with the acquisition of TransWeb on December 29, 2010. This earn-out, which is payable to one of the former owners of TransWeb, had an acquisition-date estimated fair value $1,018, which was recorded as an other long-term liability at that time. The contingent liability for the earn-out payment will continue to be accounted for and measured at fair value until the contingency is settled during the Company's fiscal year 2016. The fair value measurement of the contingent earn-out payment is based primarily on projected 2014 and 2015 TransWeb adjusted earnings, which represent significant inputs not observed in the market and thus represents a Level 3 measurement. The contingent earn-out payment is revalued to its current fair value at each reporting date. The fair value of the TransWeb contingent earn-out payment was $0 at November 30, 2014 and 2013, based on the projected adjusted earnings of TransWeb.
	See Note F for information related to the fair values of hedging instruments.
	Fair Values of Financial Instruments
	The fair values of the Company’s financial instruments, which are cash and cash equivalents, restricted cash, accounts receivable, the restricted trust, derivative instruments and accounts payable and accrued liabilities, approximated the carrying values of those financial instruments at both November 30, 2014 and 2013.  An expected present value technique is used to estimate the fair value of long-term debt, using a model that discounts future principal and interest payments at interest rates available to the Company at the end of the period for similar debt of the same maturity.  A fair value estimate of $408,208 and $166,288 for long-term debt at November 30, 2014 and 2013, respectively, is based on a Level 2 measurement using the current interest rates available to the Company for debt with similar remaining maturities.  The carrying value for the long-term debt at November 30, 2014 and 2013 is $411,563 and $166,636 respectively.

Derivative_Instruments_and_Hed

Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities	12 Months Ended
	Nov. 29, 2014
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities	DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS AND HEDGING ACTIVITIES
	The Company is exposed to various market risks that arise from transactions entered into in the normal course of business. The Company selectively uses derivative instruments to manage certain such risks, including market risks associated with changes in foreign currency exchange rates and changes in interest rates. The Company does not hold or issue derivatives for trading or speculative purposes. A description of each type of derivative utilized by the Company to manage risk is included below. In addition, refer to Note E for information related to the fair value measurements and valuation methods utilized by the Company for each derivative type.
	The Company may elect to designate certain derivatives as hedging instruments under the accounting standards for derivatives and hedging. The Company formally documents all relationships between designated hedging instruments and hedged items as well as its risk management objective and strategy for undertaking hedge transactions.
	All derivatives are recognized on the balance sheet at fair value and classified based on the instrument's maturity date. The total notional amount of derivatives outstanding at November 30, 2014 was $97,479, which consists of undesignated derivative instruments to manage translational foreign exchange risk related to inter-company advances, and derivatives designated as fair value hedges to manage the risk of changes in foreign currency exchange rates on certain firm sales commitments expected to be settled at future dates.
	The following table presents the fair values of derivative instruments included within the Consolidated Balance Sheets at November 30, 2014 and 2013:
		2014			2013
	Prepaid expenses and other current assets
	Designated as hedging instruments:
	Foreign exchange contracts	—			—
	Unrecognized firm sales commitments	248			—
	Total designated	$	248		$	—
	Not designated as hedging instruments:
	Foreign exchange contracts	362			—
	Total not designated	$	362		$	—
	Total derivatives	$	610		$	—
	Accrued liabilities
	Designated as hedging instruments:
	Foreign exchange contracts	245			—
	Unrecognized firm sales commitments	—			—
	Total designated	$	245		$	—
	Not designated as hedging instruments:
	Foreign exchange contracts	122			—
	Total not designated	$	122		$	—
	Total derivatives	$	367		$	—
	The following table presents the amounts affecting the Consolidated Statements of Earnings for the years ended November 30, 2014 and 2013:
		2014			2013
	Fair value hedges
	Foreign exchange contracts - Selling and administrative expenses	$	(250	)	$	—
	Unrecognized firm sales commitments - Selling and administrative expenses	252			—
	Total designated	$	2		$	—
	Not designated as hedges
	Foreign exchange contracts - Selling and administrative expenses	$	(135	)	$	—
	Foreign exchange contracts - Other, net income (expense)	2,421			—
	Total not designated	$	2,286		$	—
	Fair Value Hedges
	The Company is exposed to changes in foreign currency exchange rates on certain unrecognized firm sales commitments expected to be settled at future dates. The Company may use foreign currency forward contracts to manage certain such risks. The Company designates each such contract as a fair value hedge from the date the firm sales commitment and derivative contract are entered into through the date the related sale occurs, at which point the foreign currency forward contract is de-designated as a fair value hedging instrument. All realized and unrealized gains or losses on such foreign currency forward contracts are recognized in income as incurred. Changes in the fair value of the related unrecognized firm sales commitments that arise due to fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates are also reflected in income and as an asset or liability on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.
	The total notional amount of foreign currency contracts designated as fair value hedges outstanding at November 30, 2014 was $6,013. There were no such fair value hedges entered into during the year ended November 30, 2013. The cash flows associated with the periodic settlement of the Company's fair value hedges are reflected as a component of Cash flows from operating activities in the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows.
	Undesignated Derivative Instruments
	The Company is exposed to changes in foreign currency exchange rates on certain inter-company advances. The Company may use foreign currency forward contracts to manage certain such risks. These forward contracts are not designated as hedging instruments under the accounting standards for derivatives and hedging. These undesignated instruments are recorded at fair value as an asset or liability on the Consolidated Balance Sheets and all realized and unrealized gains or losses on such foreign currency forward contracts are recognized in income as incurred.
	The total notional amount of such foreign currency contracts not designated as hedging instruments outstanding as of November 30, 2014 was $87,440. Additionally, the total notional amount of foreign currency contracts de-designated as fair value hedges outstanding at November 30, 2014 was $4,026. There were no such foreign currency contracts entered into during the year ended November 30, 2013. The cash flows associated with the periodic settlement of the Company's undesignated derivative instruments are reflected as a component of Cash flows from operating activities in the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows.
	Counterparty credit risk
	By using derivative instruments to manage certain of its risk exposures, the Company is subject, from time to time, to credit risk and market risk on such derivative instruments. Credit risk arises from the potential failure of the counterparty to perform under the terms of the derivative instrument. When the fair value of a derivative instrument is positive, the counterparty owes the Company, which creates credit risk for the Company. The Company mitigates this credit risk by entering into transactions with only creditworthy counterparties. Market risk arises from the potential adverse effects on the value of the derivative that result from changes in foreign currency exchange rates or interest rates, depending on the nature of the derivative. The Company mitigates this market risk by establishing and monitoring parameters that limit the types and degrees of market risk that may be undertaken.

Accrued_Liabilities

Accrued Liabilities	12 Months Ended
	Nov. 29, 2014
Payables and Accruals [Abstract]
Accrued Liabilities	ACCRUED LIABILITIES
	Accrued liabilities at November 30, 2014 and 2013 were as follows:
		2014			2013
	Accrued salaries, wages and commissions	$	29,621		$	14,908
	Pension and postretirement healthcare benefits liabilities	279			278
	Compensated absences	9,967			8,600
	Accrued insurance liabilities	11,358			7,599
	Warranties	9,405			1,599
	Customer deposits	23,045			16,081
	Other accrued liabilities	36,361			29,309
		$	120,036		$	78,374
	No amounts within the Other accrued liabilities amount shown above exceed 5% of total current liabilities.
	Warranties are recorded as a liability on the balance sheet and as charges to current expense for estimated normal warranty costs and, if applicable, for specific performance issues known to exist on products already sold.  The expenses estimated to be incurred are provided at the time of sale, or when a claim arises, and adjusted as needed, based primarily upon experience.  Changes in the Company’s warranty accrual for the years ended November 30, 2014, 2013 and 2012 are as follows:
		2014			2013			2012
	Warranty accrual at beginning of period	$	1,599		$	1,533		$	2,580
	Accruals for warranties issued during the period	2,187			844			514
	Adjustments related to business acquisitions	10,946			—			32
	Adjustments related to pre-existing warranties	818			(290		)	(691		)
	Settlements made during the period	(5,872		)	(500		)	(850		)
	Other adjustments, including currency translation	(273		)	12			(52		)
	Warranty accrual at end of period	$	9,405		$	1,599		$	1,533

LongTerm_Debt

Long-Term Debt	12 Months Ended
	Nov. 29, 2014
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Long-Term Debt	LONG-TERM DEBT
	Long-term debt at November 30, 2014 and 2013 consisted of the following:
			2014		2013
	Credit Facility:
		Multicurrency Revolving Credit Facility	$	—	$	50,000
		Multicurrency Term Loan Facility	395,000		100,000
	Industrial Revenue Bonds, at weighted average interest rates of 0.22% and 0.23%, respectively, at November 30, 2014 and 2013		15,820		15,820
	Other long-term debt		743		816
	Total long-term debt		$	411,563	$	166,636
	Current portion of long-term debt		$	233	$	50,223
	Long-term debt, less current portion		$	411,330	$	116,413
	On April 5, 2012, the Company entered into a five-year multicurrency revolving credit agreement which included a revolving credit facility (the “Credit Facility”) with a group of financial institutions. Under the Credit Facility, the Company may borrow up to $150,000 which includes a $10,000 swing line sub-facility, as well as an accordion feature that allows the Company to increase the Credit Facility by a total of up to $100,000, subject to securing additional commitments from existing lenders or new lending institutions. On November 22, 2013, the Company entered into a credit agreement amendment to include a $100,000 term loan facility (the "Term Loan Facility") and on May 1, 2014, the Company entered into a second credit agreement amendment to include an additional $315,000 to the Term Loan Facility, whose maturity date will be the same as the maturity date of the Credit Facility. At the Company's election, loans made under the Credit Facility and Term Loan Facility bear interest at either (1) a defined base rate, which varies with the highest of the defined prime rate, the federal funds rate, or a specified margin over the one-month London Interbank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”), or (2) LIBOR plus an applicable margin. Swing line loans bear interest at the defined base rate plus an applicable margin. Commitment fees and letter of credit fees are also payable under the Credit Facility. Borrowings under the Credit Facility and Term Loan Facility are unsecured, but are guaranteed by substantially all of the Company's material domestic subsidiaries. The credit agreement also contains certain covenants customary to such agreements, including covenants that place limits on our ability to incur additional debt, require us to maintain minimum levels of interest coverage, and restrict certain changes in ownership, as well as customary events of default.
	At November 30, 2014, there was $395,000 outstanding on the Term Loan Facility with a weighted average interest rate of approximately 1.05%, there was $0 outstanding on the Credit Facility, and the Company had a remaining borrowing capacity of $133,988. The Credit Facility includes a $50,000 letter of credit sub-facility, against which $16,012 in letters of credit had been issued at both November 30, 2014 and 2013.
	As of November 30, 2014 and 2013, industrial revenue bonds issued by the Company include $7,410 issued in cooperation with the Campbellsville-Taylor County Industrial Development Authority (Kentucky) due May 1, 2031 and $8,410 re-issued in cooperation with the South Dakota Economic Development Finance Authority due February 1, 2016.  The interest rates on these bonds are reset weekly.
	Principal maturities of long-term debt as of November 30, 2014 and for the next five fiscal years ending November 30 are as follows:
	2015	$	233
	2016	8,659
	2017	395,127
	2018	42
	2019	7
	Thereafter	7,495
		$	411,563

Leases

Leases	12 Months Ended
	Nov. 29, 2014
Leases [Abstract]
Leases	LEASES
	The Company has various lease agreements for offices, warehouses, manufacturing plants and equipment that expire on various dates through December 2034.  Some of these lease agreements contain renewal options and provide for payment of property taxes, utilities and certain other expenses. The following table summarizes rent expense for the past three fiscal years and commitments for minimum rentals under noncancelable leases having initial or remaining terms in excess of one year at November 30, 2014.
	Rent expense for the years ended:
	2014	$	20,251
	2013	16,124
	2012	16,699
	Future minimum rentals under noncancelable leases:
	2015	$	12,853
	2016	9,110
	2017	5,902
	2018	3,368
	2019	2,379
	Thereafter	6,511

Pension_and_Other_Postretireme

Pension and Other Postretirement Plans	12 Months Ended
	Nov. 29, 2014
Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]
Pension and Other Postretirement Plans	PENSION AND OTHER POSTRETIREMENT PLANS
	The Company has defined benefit pension plans and a postretirement healthcare benefit plan covering certain current and retired employees.  The Company has frozen participation in its defined benefit plans and postretirement healthcare benefit plan.  For one of the plans, certain current plan participants continue to accrue benefits in the plan, while other current participants do not accrue future benefits under the plan but participate in the Company's defined contribution plan which offers an increased Company match.
	The Company’s policy is to contribute to its qualified U.S. and non-U.S. pension plans at least the minimum amount required by applicable laws and regulations, to contribute to the U.S. combined nonqualified plans when required for benefit payments, and to contribute to the postretirement healthcare benefit plan an amount equal to the benefit payments.  The Company, from time to time, makes voluntary contributions in excess of the minimum amount required as economic conditions warrant.  During 2014, 2013 and 2012, the Company made voluntary contributions to its qualified U.S. pension plans of $0, $1,493 and $15,793, respectively. The Company expects to contribute $0 to its U.S. qualified plans, $221 to its U.S. combined nonqualified plans, $394 to its non-U.S. plan and $58 to its postretirement healthcare benefit plan to pay benefits during 2015.
	The projected benefit obligation ("PBO"), accumulated benefit obligation (“ABO”) and fair value of plan assets for qualified pension plans with PBOs and ABOs in excess of plan assets were $202,622, $197,278 and $172,280, respectively, at November 30, 2014.
	The U.S. combined nonqualified plans are unfunded; therefore, there are no plan assets; however, the Company had funded $893 and $1,024 at November 30, 2014 and 2013, respectively, into a restricted trust for its U.S. combined nonqualified plans, see Note E.  This trust is included in Other noncurrent assets in the Consolidated Balance Sheets.  The PBO and ABO for the U.S. combined nonqualified plans were $2,358 and $2,198, at November 30, 2014, respectively.
	A discount rate is used to calculate the present value of the PBO.  The Company’s objective in selecting a discount rate is to select the best estimate of the rate at which the benefit obligations could be effectively settled on the measurement date, taking into account the nature and duration of the benefit obligations of the plan.  In making this estimate, the Company looks at rates of return on high-quality fixed-income investments currently available and expected to be available during the period to maturity of the benefits.  This process includes looking at the bonds available on the measurement date with a quality rating of Aa or better.  Similar appropriate benchmarks are used to determine the discount rate for the non-U.S. plan.  The difference in the discount rates between the qualified, the nonqualified and the other postretirement plans is due to different expectations as to the period of time in which plan members will participate in the various plans.  In general, higher discount rates correspond to longer expected participation periods.  The assumptions for the discount rate, rate of compensation increase and expected rate of return and the asset allocations related to the non-U.S. plan are not materially different than for the U.S. qualified plans.
	The rate of compensation increase represents the long-term assumption for expected increases in salaries among continuing active participants accruing benefits in the pay-related plans.  The Company considers the impact of profit-sharing payments, merit increases and promotions in setting the salary increase assumption as well as possible future inflation increases and its impact on salaries paid to plan participants at the locations where the Company conducts operations.
	The following tables show reconciliations of the changes in benefit obligations and plan assets for our pension plans and other postretirement benefits plan as of November 30, 2014 and 2013.  The accrued pension benefit obligation includes an unfunded benefit obligation of $2,358 and $2,012 as of November 30, 2014 and 2013, respectively, related to the Company’s U.S. combined nonqualified plans.
		Pension Benefits							Other Postretirement Benefits
		2014				2013			2014			2013
	Change in benefit obligation
	Benefit obligation at beginning of year	$	176,099			$	217,987		$	356		$	442
	Currency translation	(357		)		190			—			—
	Service cost	1,990				2,485			—			—
	Interest cost	7,704				6,934			10			9
	Plan participants' contributions	22				39			—			—
	Actuarial (gains) losses	27,232				(22,472		)	17			(73		)
	Benefits paid	(7,708		)		(29,064		)	(197		)	(251		)
	Retiree contributions	—				—			211			229
	Benefit obligation at end of year	$	204,982			$	176,099		$	397		$	356
		Pension Benefits							Other Postretirement Benefits
		2014				2013			2014			2013
	Change in plan assets
	Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	$	156,384			$	146,307		$	—		$	—
	Currency translation	(348		)		174			—			—
	Actual return on plan assets	23,396				14,305			—			—
	Employer contributions	534				24,623			197			251
	Plan participants' contributions	22				39			—			—
	Benefits paid	(7,708		)		(29,064		)	(197		)	(251		)
	Fair value of plan assets at end of year	$	172,280			$	156,384		$	—		$	—
	Funded status	$	(32,702	)		$	(19,715	)	$	(397	)	$	(356	)
	Accumulated benefit obligation at end of year	$	199,476			$	170,433		n/a			n/a
	Assumptions:
	Discount rate - qualified plans	3.75%				4.50%			3.25%			3.00%
	Discount rate - nonqualified plans	3.00%				3.25%			n/a			n/a
	Rate of compensation increase - qualified plans	4.00%				4.00%			n/a			n/a
	Rate of compensation increase - nonqualified plans	4.00%				4.00%			n/a			n/a
	Measurement date	11/30/14				11/30/13			11/30/14			11/30/13
		Pension Benefits							Other Postretirement Benefits
		2014				2013			2014			2013
	Amounts recognized in the Consolidated Balance Sheets as of November 30
	Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	$	(221	)		$	(216	)	$	(59	)	$	(63	)
	Long-term pension and postretirement healthcare benefits liabilities	(32,481		)		(19,499		)	(338		)	(293		)
	Funded status	$	(32,702	)		$	(19,715	)	$	(397	)	$	(356	)
	Accumulated other comprehensive loss, pre-tax	$	61,096			$	48,902		$	(1,346	)	$	(1,632	)
	Amounts recognized in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss, as of November 30
	Unrecognized net actuarial loss (gain)	$	61,098			$	48,914		$	(873	)	$	(1,037	)
	Unrecognized net prior service credit	(2		)		(12		)	(473		)	(595		)
	Accumulated other comprehensive loss, pre-tax	61,096				48,902			(1,346		)	(1,632		)
	Deferred taxes	(22,535		)		(17,979		)	475			587
	Accumulated other comprehensive loss, after-tax	$	38,561			$	30,923		$	(871	)	$	(1,045	)
	The amounts affecting Accumulated other comprehensive loss for the years ended November 30, 2014 and 2013 are as follows:
		Pension Benefits							Other Postretirement Benefits
		2014				2013			2014			2013
	Amortization of prior service (cost) credit, net of tax of $(5), $(6) and $(43), $(44), respectively	$	5			$	3		$	79		$	79
	Amortization of actuarial (losses) gains, net of tax of $1,063, $3,060 and $(52), $(54), respectively	(1,821		)		(5,498		)	95			95
	Current year actuarial losses (gains), net of tax of $(5,559), $9,304 and $(6), $26, respectively	9,509				(16,637		)	11			(46		)
	Effect of change in deferred tax rate	(78		)		982			(11		)	(7		)
	Total	$	7,615			$	(21,150	)	$	174		$	121
	The target allocation of invested assets for the U.S. plans is 40% equity securities and 60% debt securities.  The target allocation is based on the Company’s desire to maximize total return, considering the long-term funding objectives of the pension plans, but may change in the future.  Plan assets are diversified to achieve a balance between risk and return.  The Company does not invest plan assets in private equity funds or hedge funds.  The Company’s expected long-term rate of return considers historical returns on plan assets as well as future expectation given the current and target asset allocation and current economic conditions with input from investment managers and actuaries.  The expected rate of return on plan assets is designed to be a long-term assumption that may be subject to considerable year-to-year variance from actual returns.
	As of the November 30th measurement dates, the fair values of actual pension asset allocations were as follows:
		2014			2013
	Equity securities	39.9	%		51	%
	Debt securities	59.5	%		48.7	%
Real estate	—	%		—	%
Cash and cash equivalents	0.6	%		0.3	%
	100	%		100	%
The accounting guidance on fair value measurements specifies a fair value hierarchy based upon the observability of inputs used in valuation techniques (Level 1, 2 and 3).  See Note E for a discussion of the fair value hierarchy.  The following table summarizes the fair value of the pension plans’ assets.
	Fair Value Measurements at Reporting Date
	Total				Level 1			Level 2			Level 3
November 30, 2014
U.S. equity securities funds	$	47,181			$	47,181		$	—		$	—
Non-U.S. equity securities funds	$	21,546			21,546			—			—
Fixed income securities funds	$	102,561			102,561			—			—
Cash and equivalents funds	$	703			703			—			—
Total	$	171,991			$	171,991		$	—		$	—
Other items to reconcile to fair value of plan assets	289
Fair value of plan assets	$	172,280
	Fair Value Measurements at Reporting Date
	Total				Level 1			Level 2			Level 3
November 30, 2013
U.S. equity securities funds	$	55,129			$	55,129		$	—		$	—
Non-U.S. equity securities funds	$	24,587			24,587			—			—
Fixed income securities funds	$	76,121			76,121			—			—
Cash and equivalents funds	$	547			547			—			—
Total	$	156,384			$	156,384		$	—		$	—
Other items to reconcile to fair value of plan assets	—
Fair value of plan assets	$	156,384
U.S. equity securities funds consist primarily of large cap and small cap U.S. companies.  Non-U.S. equity securities funds consist primarily of equities of non-U.S. developed markets.  Funds that are traded on a national exchange are categorized as Level 1. Fixed income securities funds consist primarily of bonds such as governmental agencies, investment grade credit, commercial mortgage backed, residential mortgage backed and asset backed.  Funds that are traded on a national exchange are categorized as Level 1.
Other items to reconcile to fair value of plan assets is the net of interest receivable, amounts due for securities sold, amounts payable for securities purchased and interest payable.
The Company had no Level 3 assets for the years ended November 30, 2014 and 2013.
The components of net periodic benefit cost for pensions are shown below.  Net periodic benefit cost is based on assumptions determined at the prior year-end measurement date.  Increases in the liability due to changes in plan benefits are recognized in the net periodic benefit costs through straight-line amortization over the average remaining service period of employees expected to receive benefits.
	Pension Benefits
	2014				2013			2012
Components of net periodic benefit cost
Service cost	$	1,990			$	2,485		$	2,126
Interest cost	7,704				6,934			7,715
Expected return on plan assets	(11,306		)		(10,795		)	(9,181		)
Settlement costs	—				3,087			—
Amortization of unrecognized:
Prior service cost	(10		)		(9		)	(10		)
Net actuarial loss	2,884				5,471			8,323
Net periodic benefit cost	$	1,262			$	7,173		$	8,973
Assumptions:
Discount rate - qualified plans	4.50%				3.50%			4.50%
Discount rate - nonqualified plans	3.25%				3.25%			1.75%
Expected return on plan assets	7.50%				7.50%			7.50%
Rate of compensation increase - qualified plans	4.00%				4.00%			4.00%
Rate of compensation increase - nonqualified plans	4.00%				4.00%			4.00%
Measurement date - qualified plans	11/30/13				11/30/12			11/30/11
Measurement date - nonqualified plans	11/30/13				11/30/13			11/30/12
For the determination of 2015 expense, the Company changed its assumptions as follows: (a) decrease the long-term return on assets for its qualified plans to 7.00%, (b) decrease the discount rates on its qualified plans to 3.75%, (c) leave the rate of compensation increase unchanged, and (d) adopt the RP 2014 blend with MP-2014 mortality table developed for pension plans by a Society of Actuaries study.  For its U.S. combined nonqualified plans, the Company decreased the discount rates to 3.00% and left the rate of compensation increase unchanged.
The changes in the fair value of plan assets, plan liabilities and in the assumptions will result in a net decrease in fiscal year 2015 expense of approximately $534 for the qualified U.S. pension plans. The Company also expects a net increase of approximately $45 for the U.S. combined nonqualified plans in fiscal year 2015.
The postretirement obligations represent a fixed dollar amount per retiree.  The Company has the right to modify or terminate these benefits.  The participants will assume substantially all future healthcare benefit cost increases, and future increases in healthcare costs will not increase the postretirement benefit obligation or cost to the Company.  Therefore, the Company has not assumed any annual rate of increase in the per capita cost of covered healthcare benefits for future years.  The Company discontinued the prescription drug benefit portion of its plan effective January 31, 2006.
The components of net periodic benefit income for postretirement healthcare benefits are shown below.
	Other Postretirement Benefits
	2014				2013			2012
Components of net periodic benefit income
Interest cost	$	10			$	9		$	17
Amortization of unrecognized:
Prior service cost	(122		)		(122		)	(122		)
Net actuarial gain	(147		)		(149		)	(121		)
Net periodic benefit income	$	(259	)		$	(262	)	$	(226	)
Assumptions:
Discount rate	3		%		2.25		%	3.5		%
Measurement date	11/30/13				11/30/12			11/30/11
The Company froze participation in the postretirement healthcare plan to eligible retirees effective January 1, 2007.  As a result, unrecognized prior service costs of $1,708 are being amortized over the average remaining years of service for active plan participants.  The Company expects to increase its discount rate assumption to 3.25% in 2015 for its other postretirement benefits plan, which will not significantly affect the fiscal year 2015 expense.
The estimated amounts that will be amortized from Accumulated other comprehensive loss at November 30, 2014 into net periodic benefit cost, pre-tax, in fiscal year 2015 are as follows:
	Pension				Other
	Benefits				Postretirement
					Benefits
Prior service credit	$	(3	)		$	(123	)
Actuarial loss (gain)	3,869				(87		)
Total	$	3,866			$	(210	)
The expected cash benefit payments from the plans for the next ten fiscal years are as follows:
	Pension				Other
	Benefits				Postretirement
					Benefits
2015	$	8,427			$	58
2016	8,754				49
2017	9,229				41
2018	9,703				37
2019	10,184				34
2020-2024	59,950				124
The Company also sponsors various defined contribution plans that provide employees with an opportunity to accumulate funds for their retirement.  The Company may match, at its discretion, the contributions of participating employees in the respective plans.  The Company recognized expense related to these plans for the past three fiscal years as follows:
2014	$	7,945
2013	4,482
2012	4,377

Income_Taxes

Income Taxes	12 Months Ended
	Nov. 29, 2014
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income Taxes	INCOME TAXES
	The following is a reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of gross unrecognized tax benefits for uncertain tax positions, including positions which impact only the timing of tax benefits for the years ended November 30, 2014, 2013 and 2012.
		2014				2013				2012
	Unrecognized tax benefits at December 1,	$	2,155			$	2,209			$	3,015
	Additions for current period tax positions	465				668				382
	Reductions for current period tax positions	—				—				(37		)
	Additions for prior period tax positions	40				—				—
	Reductions for prior period tax positions	—				(40		)		(631		)
	Reductions for lapse of statute of limitations/settlements	(240		)		(431		)		(460		)
	Changes in interest and penalties	67				(251		)		(60		)
	Unrecognized tax benefits at November 30,	$	2,487			$	2,155			$	2,209
	At November 30, 2014 and 2013, the amount of unrecognized tax benefit, that would impact the effective tax rate if recognized, was $1,555 and $1,354, respectively.  As of November 30, 2014 and 2013, the Company had $273 and $221, respectively, accrued for the payment of interest and penalties.
	The Company believes it is reasonably possible that the total amount of unrecognized tax benefits as of November 30, 2014, will decrease by $253 over the next twelve months as a result of expected settlements with taxing authorities or the lapse of the statute of limitations in certain jurisdictions.  Due to the various jurisdictions in which the Company files tax returns and the uncertainty regarding the timing of settlements it is possible that there could be other significant changes in the amount of unrecognized tax benefits in fiscal year 2015; however, the amount cannot be estimated.
	The Company is regularly audited by federal, state and foreign tax authorities.  The Company's Federal tax returns for fiscal years 2010 and later remain open to examination by the Internal Revenue Service.  With few exceptions, the Company is no longer subject to income tax examinations by state or foreign tax jurisdictions for fiscal years 2009 and earlier.
	The provision for income taxes consisted of:
		2014				2013				2012
	Current:
	Federal	$	56,764			$	34,414			$	37,673
	State	4,760				2,918				2,484
	Foreign	10,112				9,096				10,228
	Deferred:
	Federal	(4,102		)		8,676				8,763
	State	(359		)		(165		)		805
	Foreign	205				1,011				(296		)
		$	67,380			$	55,950			$	59,657
	Earnings before income taxes and noncontrolling interests included the following components:
		2014				2013				2012
	Domestic income	$	166,101			$	141,224			$	145,433
	Foreign income	45,462				33,076				37,564
		$	211,563			$	174,300			$	182,997
	The provision for income taxes resulted in effective tax rates that differ from the statutory federal income tax rates.  The reasons for these differences are as follows:
		Percent of Pre-Tax Earnings
		2014			2013			2012
	Statutory U.S. tax rates	35	%		35	%		35	%
	State income taxes, net of federal benefit	1.3			1			1.4
	Tax credits	(0.2	)		(0.6	)		(0.1	)
	Foreign taxes at different rates, net of credits	(2.3	)		(1.6	)		(2.0	)
	Domestic production activities deduction	(2.7	)		(2.2	)		(2.6	)
	Other, net	0.7			0.5			0.9
		31.8	%		32.1	%		32.6	%
	The components of the net deferred tax liability as of November 30, 2014 and 2013 were as follows:
		2014				2013
	Deferred tax assets:
	Deferred compensation	$	9,074			$	7,945
	Loss carryforward and tax credit items	19,620				2,529
	Accounts receivable	6,538				5,973
	Inventories	5,484				5,000
	Pensions	10,019				4,781
	Accrued liabilities and other	6,999				1,219
	Valuation allowance	(1,268		)		(1,102		)
	Total deferred tax assets, net	56,466				26,345
	Deferred tax liabilities:
	Percentage of completion	(740		)		(539		)
	Plant assets	(24,818		)		(24,182		)
	Goodwill and acquired intangible assets	(97,179		)		(40,380		)
	Other deferred tax liabilities	(230		)		(345		)
	Total deferred tax liabilities	(122,967		)		(65,446		)
	Deferred tax liability, net	$	(66,501	)		$	(39,101	)
	The Company acquired approximately $45,500 of federal net operating loss carryforwards and $1,700 of general business credit carryforwards with the acquisitions of the Stanadyne Business on May 1, 2014. These acquired balances are estimated pending completion and filing of the federal tax returns of Stanadyne Corporation with respect to the pre-acquisition period. Such filings are expected to be completed in January 2015. The utilization of the acquired federal loss carryforwards are subject to annual limitations of approximately $20,000 based on restrictions under Section 382 of the Internal Revenue Code. As such, the Company has approximately $33,833 of federal loss carryforwards and all of the federal credit carryforwards remaining as of November 30, 2014, which will expire in 2031 through 2033. The remaining balance of deferred tax asset for loss carryforwards and tax credits available as of November 30, 2014 consists of foreign and state amounts, of which $1,319 expires in 2015 through 2029 and $4,748 may be carried over indefinitely.
	The Company increased the valuation allowance by $166 in 2014 and decreased the valuation allowance by $809 in 2013 related to the generation and utilization of foreign and state net operating losses and tax credit carryovers respectively.  The valuation allowance release in 2013 included a state valuation release due to cash contributions related to pension benefits paid in 2013 under the Company's U.S. combined nonqualified pension plan to our former Executive Chairman, who retired from the Company at the end of 2012. The valuation allowance reflects the estimated amount of deferred tax assets due to foreign net operating losses and other foreign and state temporary differences that may not be realized.  The Company expects to realize the remaining deferred tax assets through the reversal of taxable temporary differences and future earnings.
	The Company repatriated $17, $54, and $54, respectively, of accumulated foreign earnings in 2014, 2013, and 2012 related to one foreign subsidiary paying a dividend to another foreign subsidiary in those years. For the Company’s other foreign subsidiaries, the Company has not provided deferred taxes on unremitted foreign earnings from certain foreign affiliates of approximately $203,656 that are intended to be indefinitely reinvested to finance operations and expansion outside the United States.  If such earnings were distributed beyond the amount for which taxes have been provided, foreign tax credits could offset in part any incremental U.S. tax liability.  Determination of the unrecognized deferred taxes related to these undistributed earnings is not practicable.

Contingencies

Contingencies	12 Months Ended
	Nov. 29, 2014
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Contingencies	CONTINGENCIES
	Legal Contingencies
	From time to time, the Company is subject to lawsuits, investigations and disputes (some of which involve substantial claimed amounts) arising out of the conduct of its business, including matters relating to commercial transactions, product liability, intellectual property and other matters.  Certain significant items included in these other matters are discussed below.  The Company believes recorded reserves in its Consolidated Financial Statements are adequate in light of the probable and reasonably estimable outcomes of the items discussed below and other applicable matters.  Any recorded liabilities were not material to the Company’s financial position, results of operation or liquidity for the periods presented, and the Company does not currently believe that any pending claims or litigation, including those identified below, will materially affect its financial position, results of operation or liquidity.
	TransWeb/3M
	On May 21, 2010, 3M Company and 3M Innovative Properties (“3M”) brought a lawsuit against TransWeb, LLC ("TransWeb") in the United States District Court for the District of Minnesota, alleging that certain TransWeb products infringe multiple claims of certain 3M patents. Shortly after receiving service of process in this litigation, TransWeb filed its own complaint against 3M in the United States District Court for the District of New Jersey, seeking a declaratory judgment that the asserted patents are invalid and that the products in question do not infringe. 3M withdrew its Minnesota action, and the parties litigated the matter in New Jersey. The litigation in question was filed and underway before the Company acquired TransWeb in December 2010, but the Company assumed the risk of this litigation as a result of the acquisition.
	During the litigation TransWeb sought judgment that (i) the asserted 3M patents are invalid, the TransWeb products in question do not infringe, and the 3M patents are unenforceable due to inequitable conduct by 3M in obtaining the patents, and (ii) 3M violated U.S. federal antitrust laws under theories of Walker Process fraud and sham litigation. Following a 2012 trial in which a six-member jury unanimously found in TransWeb's favor on all counts other than sham litigation, on April 21, 2014 the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey issued a ruling in favor of TransWeb and awarded TransWeb approximately $26,147 in damages.
	3M timely exercised its automatic right to appeal the court's judgment to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit, and the matter is currently under active appeal before such tribunal.
	Other
	The Company is party to various proceedings relating to environmental issues.  The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and/or other responsible state agencies have designated the Company as a potentially responsible party, along with other companies, in remedial activities for the cleanup of waste sites under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (commonly referred to as the federal Superfund statute).  Additionally, the North Carolina Department of Environmental Protection has identified the property on which one of the Company's subsidiaries, CLARCOR Engine Mobile Solutions, LLC, currently operates as having concentrations of certain chemicals in groundwater that are above regulatory action levels.
	Although it is not certain what future environmental claims, if any, may be asserted in connection with these known environmental matters, the Company currently believes that its potential liability for known environmental matters is not material and that it has adequately reserved for any associated liabilities based on the information available to the Company.  However, environmental and related remediation costs are difficult to quantify for a number of reasons, including the number of parties involved, the difficulty in determining the nature and extent of the contamination at issue, the length of time remediation may require, the complexity of the environmental regulation, the continuing advancement of remediation technology, and the potential imposition of joint and several liability on each potentially responsible party for the cleanup.
	In addition to the matters cited above, the Company is involved in legal actions arising in the normal course of business.  The Company records provisions with respect to identified claims or lawsuits when it is probable that a liability has been incurred and the amount of the loss can be reasonably estimated. Claims and lawsuits are reviewed quarterly and provisions are taken or adjusted to reflect the status of a particular matter.
	Other Contingencies
	In the event of a change in control of the Company, termination benefits are likely to be required for certain executive officers and other employees.

Incentive_Plans_and_StockBased

Incentive Plans and Stock-Based Compensation	12 Months Ended
	Nov. 29, 2014
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]
Incentive Plans and Stock-Based Compensation	INCENTIVE PLANS AND STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION
	On March 25, 2014, the shareholders of CLARCOR approved the 2014 Incentive Plan, which replaced the 2009 Incentive Plan.  The 2014 Incentive Plan allows the Company to grant stock options, restricted stock unit awards, restricted stock awards, performance awards and other awards to officers, directors and key employees of up to 6,600,000 shares during a ten-year period that ends in 2024.  Upon share option exercise or restricted stock unit award conversion, the Company issues new shares unless treasury shares are available.
	Stock Options
	Nonqualified stock options are granted at exercise prices equal to the market price of CLARCOR common stock at the date of grant, which is the date the Company’s Board of Directors approves the grant and the participants receive it.  The Company’s Board of Directors determines the vesting requirements for stock options at the time of grant and may accelerate vesting.  In general, options granted to key employees vest 25% per year beginning at the end of the first year; therefore, they become fully exercisable at the end of four years.  Vesting may be accelerated in the event of retirement, disability or death of a participant or change in control of the Company.  Options granted to non-employee directors vest immediately.  Beginning in 2013, stock-based compensation for the Company's Board of Directors has been in the form of restricted stock, rather than stock options. All options expire ten years from the date of grant unless otherwise terminated.
	The following table summarizes information related to stock options and stock option exercises during the years ended November 30, 2014, 2013 and 2012.
		2014				2013				2012
	Pre-tax compensation expense	$	5,025			$	3,212			$	4,997
	Deferred tax benefits	(1,834		)		(1,153		)		(1,836		)
	Excess tax benefits associated with tax deductions over the amount of compensation expense recognized in the consolidated financial statements	2,668				7,231				2,007
	Fair value of options granted	5,186				3,868				6,407
	Total intrinsic value of options exercised	9,696				29,384				8,793
	Cash received upon exercise of options	10,738				33,778				5,170
	Addition to capital in excess of par value due to exercise of stock options	13,084				38,903				5,440
	The following table summarizes activity with respect to nonqualified stock options granted by the Company and includes options granted under the 2014, 2009, 2004 and 1994 Incentive Plans.
		2014							2013						2012
		Options			Weighted				Options			Weighted			Options			Weighted
		Granted			Average				Granted			Average			Granted			Average
		under			Exercise				under			Exercise			under			Exercise
		Incentive			Price				Incentive			Price			Incentive			Price
		Plans							Plans						Plans
	Outstanding at beginning of year	2,208,314			$	40.76			3,037,151			$	36.09		2,907,533			$	32.39
	Granted	450,700			$	61.49			387,500			$	45.25		512,850			$	49.84
	Exercised	(322,473	)		$	33.3			(1,191,752	)		$	30.3		(353,793	)		$	25.28
	Surrendered	(25,821	)		$	52.47			(24,585	)		$	42.48		(29,439	)		$	40.17
	Outstanding at end of year	2,310,720			$	45.71			2,208,314			$	40.76		3,037,151			$	36.09
	Exercisable at end of year	1,409,359			$	40.7			1,413,100			$	38.19		2,035,267			$	32.54
	At November 30, 2014, there was $5,019 of unrecognized compensation cost related to nonvested option awards which the Company expects to recognize over a weighted-average period of 2.04 years.
	The following table summarizes information about the Company’s outstanding and exercisable options at November 30, 2014.
			Options Outstanding											Options Exercisable
	Range of Exercise		Number		Weighted				Intrinsic Value				Weighted	Number		Weighted				Intrinsic Value		Weighted
	Prices				Average								Average			Average						Average
					Exercise								Remaining Life			Exercise						Remaining Life
					Price								in Years			Price						in Years
	$25.31 - $28.79		66,100		$	26.59			$	2,598			2.63	66,100		$	26.59			$	2,598	2.63
	$31.96 - $36.48		523,009		$	33.62			16,876				3.72	523,009		$	33.62			16,876		3.72
	$42.86 - $49.91		1,279,161		$	46.2			25,193				7.17	808,125		$	46.13			15,969		6.87
	$55.01 - $61.57		442,450		$	61.45			1,962				9.05	12,125		$	61.23			56		9.02
			2,310,720		$	45.71			$	46,629			6.62	1,409,359		$	40.7			$	35,499	5.52
	The fair value of each option grant is estimated on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option pricing model with the following weighted average assumptions by grant year.
		2014				2013				2012
	Weighted average fair value per option at the date of grant for options granted	$	11.51			$	9.98			$	12.49
	Risk-free interest rate	1.55		%		1.19		%		1.38		%
	Expected dividend yield	1.1		%		1.19		%		0.96		%
	Expected volatility factor	21.38		%		25.8		%		26.52		%
	Expected option term in years	5				5.4				6.1
	The expected option term in years selected for options granted during each period presented represents the period of time that the options are expected to be outstanding based on historical data of option holder exercise and termination behavior.  Expected volatilities are based upon historical volatility of the Company’s monthly stock closing prices over a period equal to the expected life of each option grant.  The risk-free interest rate is selected based on yields from U.S. Treasury zero-coupon issues with a remaining term approximately equal to the expected term of the options being valued.  Expected dividend yield is based on the estimated dividend yield determined on the date of issuance.
	Restricted Stock Unit Awards
	The Company’s restricted stock  unit awards are considered nonvested share awards.  The restricted stock unit awards require no payment from the employee.  Compensation cost is recorded based on the market price of the stock on the grant date and is recorded equally over the vesting period (generally four years).  During the vesting period, officers and key employees receive cash compensation equal to the amount of dividends declared on common shares they would have been entitled to receive had the shares been issued.  Upon vesting, employees may elect to defer receipt of their shares.  There were 19,457 and 14,760 shares which were vested and deferred at November 30, 2014 and 2013.
	The following table summarizes information related to restricted stock unit awards during the years ended November 30, 2014, 2013 and 2012.
		2014				2013				2012
	Pre-tax compensation expense	$	1,373			$	888			$	1,229
	Deferred tax benefits	(501		)		(319		)		(451		)
	Excess tax (expense) benefit associated with tax deductions (under) over the amount of compensation expense recognized in the consolidated financial statements	101				1,280				(88		)
	Fair value of restricted stock unit awards on date of grant	1,524				1,068				1,489
	Fair value of restricted stock unit awards vested	893				621				2,359
	The following table summarizes the restricted stock unit awards.
		2014							2013						2012
		Units			Weighted				Units			Weighted			Units			Weighted
					Average							Average						Average
					Grant Date							Grant Date						Grant Date
					Fair Value							Fair Value						Fair Value
	Nonvested at beginning of year	48,044			$	45.18			39,945			$	43.16		71,545			$	36.95
	Granted	24,808			$	61.42			23,624			$	45.19		29,839			$	49.91
	Vested	(20,156	)		$	44.29			(15,525	)		$	40.01		(60,320	)		$	39.11
Surrendered	(1,684	)		$	54.36			—			$	—		(1,119	)		$	44.15
Nonvested at end of year	51,012			$	53.12			48,044			$	45.18		39,945			$	43.16
As of November 30, 2014, there was $1,235 of total unrecognized compensation cost related to restricted stock unit awards that the Company expects to recognize over a weighted-average period of 2.40 years.
Directors' Restricted Stock Compensation
The incentive plans provide for grants of shares of common stock to all non-employee directors for annual incentive awards, and for grants of shares of common stock to all non-employee directors equal to a one-year annual retainer in lieu of cash at the directors’ option. The directors’ rights to the shares vest immediately on the date of grant; however, shares issued on annual retainer fees cannot be sold for a six-month period from the date of grant.  The following table summarizes information related to directors' stock compensation during the years ended November 30, 2014, 2013 and 2012.
	2014				2013				2012
Pre-tax compensation expense	$	880			$	960			$	200
Shares of Company common stock issued under the plans	15,400				18,256				4,055
Employee Stock Purchase Plan
The Company sponsors an employee stock purchase plan which allows employees to purchase stock at a discount of 5%.  Effective January 1, 2006, the plan was amended to be in compliance with safe harbor rules so that the plan is not compensatory, and no expense is recognized related to the plan.  The Company issued stock under this plan with fair value upon issuance as follows during the years ended November 30, 2014, 2013 and 2012.
	2014				2013				2012
Company stock issued under the plan	$	1,338			$	1,269			$	1,244

Earnings_Per_Share_and_Stock_R

Earnings Per Share and Stock Repurchase Activity	12 Months Ended
	Nov. 29, 2014
Earnings Per Share and Stock Repurchase Activity [Abstract]
Earnings Per Share and Stock Repurchase Activity	EARNINGS PER SHARE AND STOCK REPURCHASE ACTIVITY
	The Company calculates basic earnings per share by dividing net earnings by the weighted average number of shares outstanding.  Diluted earnings per share reflects the impact of outstanding stock options, restricted stock and other stock-based arrangements.  The FASB has issued guidance requiring unvested share-based payment awards containing nonforfeitable rights to dividends or dividend equivalents (whether paid or unpaid) be considered participating securities and included in the computation of earnings per share pursuant to the two-class method.  The Company’s unvested restricted stock unit awards discussed in Note M qualify as participating securities under this guidance.  However, the unvested restricted stock unit awards do not materially impact the calculation of basic or diluted earnings per share; therefore, the Company does not present the two-class method computation.
	The following table provides a reconciliation of the denominators utilized in the calculation of basic and diluted earnings per share:
		2014		2013		2012
	Weighted average number of shares outstanding	50,405,549		49,988,577		50,285,480
	Dilutive effect of stock-based arrangements	465,700		550,370		596,711
	Weighted average number of diluted shares outstanding	50,871,249		50,538,947		50,882,191
	Net earnings attributable to CLARCOR Inc.	$	144,084	$	118,076	$	122,986
	Net earnings per common share attributable to CLARCOR Inc. - Basic	$	2.86	$	2.36	$	2.45
	Net earnings per common share attributable to CLARCOR Inc. - Diluted	$	2.83	$	2.34	$	2.42
	The following table provides additional information regarding the calculation of earnings per share and stock repurchase activity.
		2014		2013		2012
	Number of antidilutive options with exercise prices greater than the average market price excluded from the computation of dilutive earnings per share	441,033		125,135		508,167
	Common stock repurchased and retired pursuant to the Company's stock repurchase program	$	32,822	$	27,708	$	37,320
	Number of shares repurchased and retired pursuant to the Company's stock repurchase program	535,703		534,100		792,881
	On June 25, 2013, the Company’s Board of Directors approved a three-year, $250,000 stock repurchase program.  Pursuant to the authorization, the Company may purchase shares from time to time in the open market or through privately negotiated transactions through June 25, 2016.  The Company has no obligation to repurchase shares under the authorization, and the timing, actual number and values of shares to be purchased will depend on the Company’s stock price and market conditions.  At November 30, 2014, there remained $208,460 authorized for future purchases under the program.

Segment_Information

Segment Information	12 Months Ended
	Nov. 29, 2014
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Segment Information	SEGMENT INFORMATION
	Based on the economic characteristics of the Company’s business activities, the nature of products, customers and markets served and the performance evaluation by management and the Company’s Board of Directors, the Company has identified three reportable segments: Engine/Mobile Filtration, Industrial/Environmental Filtration and Packaging.
	The Engine/Mobile Filtration segment manufactures and markets a complete line of filters used in the filtration of oils, air, fuel, coolant, hydraulic and transmission fluids in both domestic and international markets.  The Engine/Mobile Filtration segment provides filters for certain types of transportation equipment including automobiles, heavy-duty and light trucks, buses and locomotives, marine and mining equipment, industrial equipment and heavy-duty construction and agricultural equipment.  The products are sold to aftermarket distributors, original equipment manufacturers and dealer networks, private label accounts and directly to truck service centers and large national accounts.
	The Industrial/Environmental Filtration segment manufactures and markets a complete line of filters, cartridges, dust collectors, filtration systems, engineered filtration products and technologies used in the filtration of air and industrial fluid processes in both domestic and international markets.  The filters and filter systems are used in commercial and industrial buildings, hospitals, manufacturing processes, pharmaceutical processes, clean rooms, airports, shipyards, refineries and other oil and natural gas facilities, power generation plants, petrochemical plants, residences and various other infrastructures.  The products are sold to commercial and industrial distributors, original equipment manufacturers and dealer networks, private label accounts, retailers and directly to large national accounts.
	The Packaging segment manufactures and markets consumer and industrial packaging products including custom-designed plastic and metal containers and closures and lithographed metal sheets in both domestic and international markets.  The products are sold directly to consumer and industrial packaging customers.
	Net sales represent sales to unaffiliated customers.  Intersegment sales were not material.  No single customer accounted for 10% or more of the Company’s consolidated sales for the years ended November 30, 2014, 2013 and 2012.  Unallocated amounts consist of interest expense, interest income and other non-operating income and expense items.  Assets are those assets used in each business segment.  Corporate assets consist of cash, deferred income taxes, corporate facility and equipment and various other assets that are not specific to an operating segment.  The Company operates as a consolidated entity, including cooperation between segments, cost allocating and sharing of certain assets.  As such, the Company makes no representation, that if operated on a standalone basis, these segments would report net sales, operating profit and other financial data reflected below.
	The following tables provides segment data for the years ended November 30, 2014, 2013 and 2012:
		2014		2013			2012
	Net sales:
	Engine/Mobile Filtration	$	603,805	$	507,024		$	503,607
	Industrial/Environmental Filtration	833,100		549,746			541,364
	Packaging	75,949		74,000			76,794
		$	1,512,854	$	1,130,770		$	1,121,765
	Operating profit:
	Engine/Mobile Filtration	$	122,365	$	106,345		$	111,653
	Industrial/Environmental Filtration	83,351		61,996			64,766
	Packaging	4,712		6,275			6,295
		210,428		174,616			182,714
	Other income (expense), net	1,135		(316		)	283
	Earnings before income taxes	$	211,563	$	174,300		$	182,997
		2014		2013			2012
	Identifiable assets:
	Engine/Mobile Filtration	$	781,204	$	397,545		$	372,011
	Industrial/Environmental Filtration	1,022,996		715,759			706,610
	Packaging	41,817		41,030			36,350
	Corporate	42,752		294,509			90,531
		$	1,888,769	$	1,448,843		$	1,205,502
	Additions to property, plant and equipment:
	Engine/Mobile Filtration	$	46,496	$	19,809		$	24,062
	Industrial/Environmental Filtration	20,215		21,467			9,264
	Packaging	1,989		2,467			3,250
	Corporate	4,884		908			71
		$	73,584	$	44,651		$	36,647
	Depreciation and amortization:
	Engine/Mobile Filtration	$	18,170	$	10,488		$	9,327
	Industrial/Environmental Filtration	28,789		18,093			18,692
	Packaging	2,438		2,859			3,090
	Corporate	1,030		793			706
		$	50,427	$	32,233		$	31,815
	Financial data relating to the geographic areas in which the Company operates are shown for the years ended November 30, 2014, 2013 and 2012.  Net sales by geographic area are based on sales to final customers within that region.
		2014		2013			2012
	Net sales:
	United States	$	1,027,028	$	778,952		$	779,811
	Europe	165,446		96,255			102,144
	Asia	146,859		103,030			98,880
	Other International	173,521		152,533			140,930
		$	1,512,854	$	1,130,770		$	1,121,765
	Property, plant and equipment, at cost, less accumulated depreciation:
	United States	$	238,413	$	183,166		$	173,018
	Europe	24,783		12,499			3,619
	Asia	11,466		2,702			8,013
	Other International	13,694		10,586			10,451
		$	288,356	$	208,953		$	195,101

Selected_Quarterly_Financial_D

Selected Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited)	12 Months Ended
	Nov. 29, 2014
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Selected Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited)	SELECTED QUARTERLY FINANCIAL DATA (Unaudited)
	The following table provides unaudited quarterly data for 2014 and 2013:
		First		Second		Third		Fourth
		Quarter		Quarter		Quarter		Quarter
	2014
	Net sales	$	312,685	$	386,642	$	400,152	$	413,375
	Gross profit	96,587		125,370		135,325		139,753
	Net earnings	24,341		34,546		41,765		43,531
	Net earnings attributable to CLARCOR Inc.	24,321		34,552		41,703		43,508
	Net earnings per common share attributable to CLARCOR Inc. - Basic	$	0.48	$	0.68	$	0.83	$	0.87
	Net earnings per common share attributable to CLARCOR Inc. - Diluted	$	0.48	$	0.68	$	0.82	$	0.86
	Dividends declared and paid per common share	$	0.17	$	0.17	$	0.17	$	0.2
	2013
	Net sales	$	256,271	$	287,583	$	289,126	$	297,790
	Gross profit	81,486		98,214		91,900		98,609
	Net earnings	23,528		33,153		28,773		32,896
	Net earnings attributable to CLARCOR Inc.	23,462		33,051		28,707		32,856
	Net earnings per common share attributable to CLARCOR Inc. - Basic	$	0.47	$	0.66	$	0.57	$	0.65
	Net earnings per common share attributable to CLARCOR Inc. - Diluted	$	0.47	$	0.66	$	0.57	$	0.65
	Dividends declared and paid per common share	$	0.135	$	0.135	$	0.135	$	0.17

Subsequent_Event

Subsequent Event	12 Months Ended
	Nov. 29, 2014
Subsequent Events [Abstract]
Subsequent Event	SUBSEQUENT EVENT
	On December 17, 2014, the Company acquired 100% of the outstanding shares of Filter Resources, Inc., Filtration, Inc. and Fabrication Specialties, Inc. (collectively, "Filter Resources"). The purchase price for Filter Resources was approximately $21,904, subject to post-closing adjustments based on the working capital of the business as of the closing and the completion of certain capital equipment projects. Filter Resources manufactures and distributes filters to the petrochemical and refining industries, predominantly in the Texas gulf coast and Louisiana region. The operations of Filter Resources are being merged into CLARCOR's PECOFacet group of companies, headquartered in Mineral Wells, Texas, a component of our Industrial/Environmental Filtration Segment. Filter Resources was acquired to help the Company continue to grow its oil and gas filtration business in the petrochemical and refining markets. Results of operations for Filter Resources will be included as a part of the Company's Industrial/Environmental Filtration segment from the acquisition date forward. The Company has not yet completed an appraisal of the assets acquired and expects to finalize the allocation of the purchase price to the assets acquired and liabilities assumed in fiscal 2015.

Schedule_II_Valuation_and_Qual

Schedule II - Valuation and Qualifying Accounts and Reserves	12 Months Ended
	Nov. 29, 2014
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts [Abstract]
Schedule II - Valuation and Qualifying Accounts and Reserves	CLARCOR Inc.
	SCHEDULE II – VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS AND RESERVES
	For the years ended November 30, 2014, 2013 and 2012
	(Dollars in thousands)
	Column A	Column B		Column C						Column D				Column E
				Additions
	Description	Balance at		-1		-2				Deductions				Balance at
		beginning of		Charged to		Charged								end of
		period		costs and		to other								period
				expenses		accounts
	2014:00:00
	Allowance for losses on accounts receivable	$	9,183	$	1,583	$	802		(A)	$	(757	)	(B)	$	10,811
	2013:00:00
	Allowance for losses on accounts receivable	$	9,554	$	1,863	$	(1,110	)	(A)	$	(1,124	)	(B)	$	9,183
	2012:00:00
	Allowance for losses on accounts receivable	$	9,795	$	1,029	$	(96	)	(A)	$	(1,174	)	(B)	$	9,554
	NOTES:
	(A) Due to business acquisitions, reclassifications and currency translation.
	(B) Bad debts written off during year, net of recoveries.

Basis_of_Presentation_and_Sign1

Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)	12 Months Ended
	Nov. 29, 2014
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Principles of consolidation	Principles of Consolidation
	CLARCOR Inc. and its subsidiaries (collectively, the “Company” or “CLARCOR”) is a global provider of filtration products, filtration systems and services, and consumer and industrial packaging products.  As discussed further in Note O, the Company has three reportable segments: Engine/Mobile Filtration, Industrial/Environmental Filtration and Packaging.  The Consolidated Financial Statements include all domestic and foreign subsidiaries that were more than 50% owned and controlled as of each respective reporting period presented.  All intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated.
Accounting period	Accounting Period
	The Company's fiscal year-end is the Saturday closest to November 30, typically resulting in a fifty-two week year, but occasionally giving rise to an additional week, resulting in a fifty-three week year.  The fiscal years ended November 29, 2014, November 30, 2013 and December 1, 2012 were comprised of fifty-two weeks.  For clarity of presentation in the Consolidated Financial Statements, all fiscal years are shown to begin as of December 1 and end as of November 30.
Use of management's estimates	Use of Management's Estimates
	The preparation of the financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”) requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent liabilities at the date of the financial statements, and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period.  Actual results will differ from those estimates.
Foreign currency translation and transactions	Foreign Currency Translation and Transactions
	Financial statements of foreign subsidiaries are translated into U.S. Dollars at current rates, except that revenues, costs, expenses and cash flows are translated at average rates during each reporting period and equity accounts are translated at historical rates.  Net exchange gains or losses resulting from the translation of foreign financial statements are presented in the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Earnings. Transaction gains and losses that arise from exchange rate fluctuations on transactions denominated in a currency other than the functional currency are included in the results of operations as incurred.
Cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash	Cash and Cash Equivalents and Restricted Cash
	Highly liquid investments with an original maturity of three months or less when purchased and that are readily saleable are considered to be cash and cash equivalents.  Restricted cash represents funds held in escrow and cash balances held by banks as collateral for certain guarantees of overseas subsidiaries.  Restricted cash classified as current corresponds to funds held in escrow that will be used within one year or guarantees that expire within one year.  The Company also has $1,294 and $1,896 of noncurrent restricted cash recorded in Other noncurrent assets as of November 30, 2014 and 2013, respectively, corresponding to guarantees and escrow agreements that expire longer than one year from the dates of the Consolidated Balance Sheets.
	Cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash represent financial instruments with potential credit risk.  The Company mitigates the risk by investing the assets with institutions it believes to be financially sound.
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities	Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities
	The Company is exposed to various market risks that arise from transactions entered into in the normal course of business, including market risks associated with changes in foreign currency exchange rates and changes in interest rates. The Company may make use of derivative instruments to manage certain such risks, including derivatives designated as accounting hedges and/or those utilized as economic hedges which are not designated as accounting hedges. The Company does not hold or issue derivatives for trading or speculative purposes.
	All derivatives are recorded at fair value in the Consolidated Balance Sheets. Each derivative is designated as either a fair value hedge or remains undesignated. Changes in the fair value of derivatives that are designated and effective as fair value hedges are recognized currently in net income. These changes are offset in net income to the extent the hedge was effective by fair value changes related to the risk being hedged on the hedged item. Changes in fair value of undesignated hedges are recognized currently in net income. All ineffective changes in derivative fair values are recognized currently in net income.
	The Company formally documents all relationships between designated hedging instruments and hedged items as well as its risk management objective and strategy for undertaking hedge transactions. Both at inception and on an ongoing basis the hedging instrument is assessed as to its effectiveness. If and when a derivative is determined not to be highly effective as a hedge, or the underlying hedge transaction is no longer likely to occur, the hedge designation is removed, or the derivative is terminated, the hedge accounting discussed above is discontinued. Further information related to derivatives and hedging activities is included in Note F of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
Accounts receivable and allowance for losses	Accounts Receivable and Allowance for Losses
	Trade accounts receivable are recorded at the invoiced amount and do not bear interest.  Trade accounts receivable represent financial instruments with potential credit risk.  The allowance for losses is the Company’s best estimate of the amount of probable credit losses in its existing accounts receivable.  The Company determines the allowance based on economic conditions in the industries to which the Company sells and on historical experience by evaluating specific customer accounts for risk of loss, fluctuations in amounts owed and current payment trends.  The allowances provided are estimates that may be impacted by economic and market conditions which could have an effect on future allowance requirements and results of operations.  The Company reviews its allowance for doubtful accounts monthly.  Past due balances over ninety days and over a specified amount are reviewed individually for collectability.  Account balances are charged off against the allowance when it is probable the receivable will not be recovered.
Inventories	Inventories
	Inventories are valued at the lower of cost or market primarily determined on the first-in, first-out (“FIFO”) method of inventory costing, which approximates current cost.  The Company periodically assesses its inventories for potential excess, slow movement and obsolescence and adjusts inventory values accordingly.
Property, plant and equipment	Property, Plant and Equipment
	Depreciation is determined by the straight-line method for financial statement purposes and by the accelerated method for tax purposes.  The provision for depreciation is based on the estimated useful lives of the assets (15 to 40 years for buildings and improvements, the shorter of the asset life or the life of the lease for leasehold improvements and leased equipment and 3 to 15 years for machinery and equipment).  It is the Company’s policy to capitalize the cost of renewals and betterments and to charge to expense the cost of current maintenance and repairs.  When property or equipment is retired or otherwise disposed of, the net book value of the asset is removed from the Company’s books and the resulting gain or loss is reflected in operating profit.
	Plant assets classified as Assets held for sale are initially measured at the lesser of the assets’ carrying amount or the fair value less costs to sell.  Gains or losses are recognized for any subsequent changes in the fair value less cost to sell; however, gains are only recognized to the extent of cumulative losses previously recognized.  Plant assets classified as Assets held for sale are not depreciated.
Goodwill and acquired intangible assets	Goodwill and Acquired Intangible Assets
	The Company recognizes the excess of the cost of an acquired entity over the net amount assigned to assets acquired and liabilities assumed as goodwill.  Goodwill is tested for impairment at the reporting unit level on an annual basis during the fourth quarter and any time events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of goodwill and acquired intangible assets might not be recoverable.  Impairment losses would be recognized whenever the implied fair value of goodwill is less than its carrying value.
	The Company recognizes an acquired intangible asset apart from goodwill whenever the asset arises from contractual or other legal rights, or whenever it is capable of being separated or divided from the acquired entity and sold, transferred, licensed, rented or exchanged, either individually or in combination with a related contract, asset or liability.  An intangible asset other than goodwill is amortized over its estimated useful life unless that life is determined to be indefinite.  Most of the Company’s trade names and trademarks have indefinite useful lives and are subject to impairment testing.  All other acquired intangible assets, including patents which have an average 14 year life, and other identifiable intangible assets with original lives ranging from 1 to 30 years, are being amortized using the straight-line method over the estimated periods to be benefited.  The Company reviews the lives of its definite-lived intangible assets at least annually during the fourth quarter, and if necessary, impairment losses are recognized if the carrying amount of an intangible subject to amortization is not recoverable from expected future cash flows and its carrying amount exceeds its fair value.
Impairment of long-lived assets	Impairment of Long-Lived Assets
	The Company determines any impairment losses based on underlying cash flows related to specific groups of acquired long-lived assets, including plant assets, associated identifiable intangible assets and goodwill, when events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable.
Income taxes	Income Taxes
	The Company provides for income taxes and recognizes deferred tax liabilities and assets for the expected future tax consequences of temporary differences between the financial statement carrying amounts and the tax basis of assets and liabilities.   The Company does not provide deferred taxes on unremitted foreign earnings from certain foreign affiliates that are intended to be indefinitely reinvested to finance operations and expansion outside the United States.
Income taxes, uncertainties	The Company accounts for uncertain tax positions in accordance with guidance issued by the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”).  This guidance applies broadly to all tax positions taken by a company, including decisions to not report income in a tax return or to classify a transaction as tax exempt.  The approach is a two-step benefit recognition model.  The amount of benefit to recognize is measured as the largest amount of tax benefit that is greater than 50% likely of being ultimately realized upon settlement.  The tax position is derecognized when it is no longer more likely than not of being sustained.  The Company recognizes interest and penalties related to unrecognized benefits in income tax expense.
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss
	Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax, consists of foreign currency translation adjustments and pension related gains and losses, prior service costs and credits and any remaining transition amounts that have not yet been recognized through net periodic benefit costs.
Stock-based compensation	Stock-based Compensation
	Stock-based employee compensation cost is recognized using the fair-value based method for all awards granted on or after the beginning of fiscal year 2006.  The Company issues stock option awards and restricted stock unit awards to employees and issues shares of common stock to non-employee directors under its stock-based incentive plans.  The fair value of each option grant is estimated on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option pricing model.  Compensation cost related to restricted stock units is recorded based on the market price of the Company’s common stock on the grant date.  The Company recognizes compensation expense from the date of grant on a straight-line basis over a four year period or to the date retirement eligibility is achieved, whichever is shorter.  For those who are already retirement eligible on the date of grant, compensation expense is recognized immediately.
Revenue recognition	Revenue Recognition
	Revenue is recognized when product ownership and risk of loss have transferred to the customer or performance of services is complete and the Company has no remaining obligations regarding the transaction.  Estimated discounts, rebates and sales returns are recorded as a reduction of sales in the same period revenue is recognized.  Shipping and handling costs are recorded as revenue when billed to customers.  The related shipping and handling expenses are included in Cost of sales.
	The Company uses the percentage of completion accounting revenue recognition method for qualifying contracts under which products are manufactured to customer specifications.  Approximately $35,537, $42,002 and $34,466 of the Company’s total revenue for fiscal years 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively, was recognized under the percentage of completion accounting method.  Revenue is recognized on contracts utilizing the percentage of completion method based on costs incurred as a percentage of estimated total costs.  Revenue recognized on uncompleted contracts in excess of amounts billed to customers is reflected as a current asset.  Amounts billed to customers in excess of revenue recognized on uncompleted contracts are reflected as a current liability. When it is estimated that a contract will result in a loss, the entire amount of the estimated loss is accrued. The effect of revisions in costs and profit estimated for contracts is reflected in the accounting period in which the facts requiring the revisions become known.
Product warranties	Product Warranties
	The Company provides for estimated warranty costs when the related products are recorded as sales or for specific items at the time existence of the claims is known and the amounts are reasonably determinable.
Research and development	Research and Development
	The Company charges research and development costs, relating to the development of new products or the improvement or redesign of its existing products, to expense when incurred.
Insurance	Insurance
	Insurance coverage is obtained for certain property and casualty exposures, workers’ compensation and general liability, as well as risks that require insurance by law or contract.  The Company self-insures for certain other insurable risks, primarily employee medical coverage, which the Company carries insurance for certain losses above specified amounts.  Liabilities are determined using estimates, including actuarial where applicable, of the aggregate liability for claims incurred and an estimate of incurred but not reported claims, on an undiscounted basis.
Guarantees	Guarantees
	At November 30, 2014 and 2013, the Company had letters of credit totaling $33,359 and $28,541, respectively, issued to various government agencies, primarily related to industrial revenue bonds, and to insurance companies and other entities in support of its obligations.  The Company believes that no payments will be required resulting from these obligations.
	In the ordinary course of business, the Company also provides routine indemnifications and other guarantees whose terms range in duration and often are not explicitly defined.  The Company does not believe these will have a material impact on the results of operations or financial condition of the Company.
New pronouncements	New Pronouncements
	In February 2013, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued guidance to improve the reporting of reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive income ("AOCI"). The amendments do not change the current requirement for reporting net income or other comprehensive income in financial statements; however, the amendments require an entity to provide information about the amounts reclassified out of AOCI by component. In addition, an entity is required to present, either on the face of the statement where net income is presented or in the notes, significant amounts reclassified out of AOCI by the respective line items of net income, but only if the amount reclassified is required under U.S. GAAP to be reclassified to net income in its entirety in the same reporting period. For other amounts that are not required under U.S. GAAP to be reclassified in their entirety to net income, an entity is required to cross-reference to other disclosures required under U.S. GAAP that provide additional detail about those amounts. The guidance is effective for annual and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2012, although early adoption is permitted. The adoption of this guidance on December 1, 2013 did not have a material impact on the Consolidated Financial Statements. For additional information, refer to "Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss" above.
	In April 2014, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update ("ASU") No. 2014-08, "Presentation of Financial Statements and Property, Plant and Equipment; Reporting Discontinued Operations and Disclosures of Disposals of Components of an Entity." ASU 2014-08 modifies the requirements for reporting discontinued operations. Under the amendments in ASU 2014-08, the definition of discontinued operation has been modified to only include those disposals of an entity that represent a strategic shift that has (or will have) a major effect on an entity's operations and financial results. ASU 2014-08 also expands the disclosure requirements for disposals that meet the definition of a discontinued operation and requires entities to disclose information about disposals of individually significant components that do not meet the definition of discontinued operations. ASU 2014-08 is effective for annual reporting periods, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2014 (fiscal year 2016 for the Company). The adoption of this update is not expected to have a material impact on the Company's Consolidated Financial Statements.
	In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU No. 2014-09, "Revenue from Contracts with Customers." ASU 2014-09 is a comprehensive new revenue recognition model that requires a company to recognize revenue to depict the transfer of goods or services to a customer at an amount that reflects the consideration it expects to receive in exchange for those goods or services. ASU 2014-09 also requires additional disclosure about the nature, amount, timing and uncertainty of revenue and cash flows arising from customer contracts, including significant judgments and changes in judgments and assets recognized from costs incurred to obtain or fulfill a contract. ASU 2014-09 is effective for annual reporting periods, and interim periods within that period, beginning after December 15, 2016 (fiscal year 2018 for the Company) and early adoption is not permitted. Companies may use either a full retrospective or a modified retrospective approach to adopt ASU 2014-09. The Company has not yet determined the potential effects of the adoption of ASU 2014-09 on its Consolidated Financial Statements.

Basis_of_Presentation_and_Sign2

Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Nov. 29, 2014
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Schedule of inventory	Inventories are summarized as follows:
		2014				2013
	Raw materials	$	101,848			$	80,741
	Work in process	41,729				34,402
	Finished products	131,141				103,643
		$	274,718			$	218,786
Schedule of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	Changes in Accumulated other comprehensive loss by component are as follows:
		Pension Benefits				Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments			Total
	Balance at November 30, 2013, net of tax	$	(29,878	)		$	64		$	(29,814	)
	Other comprehensive loss before reclassifications and tax	(15,085		)		(16,477		)	(31,562		)
	Tax benefit	5,565				—			5,565
	Other comprehensive loss before reclassifications, net of tax	(9,520		)		(16,477		)	(25,997		)
	Reclassifications, before tax	2,651			(a)	—			2,651
	Tax expense	(920		)		—			(920		)
	Reclassifications, net of tax	1,731				—			1,731
	Other comprehensive loss, net of tax	(7,789		)		(16,477		)	(24,266		)
	Balance at November 30, 2014, net of tax	$	(37,667	)		$	(16,413	)	$	(54,080	)

Business_Acquisitions_Investme1

Business Acquisitions, Investments and Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Nov. 29, 2014
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Schedule of pro forma information	The pro forma amounts include the Company’s determination of purchase accounting adjustments based on available information and certain assumptions that the Company believes are reasonable.
		Twelve Months Ended November 30, 2014											Twelve Months Ended November 30, 2013
		As reported			CLARCOR			CLARCOR			Pro forma		As reported		CLARCOR			CLARCOR			Pro forma
					Engine Mobile Solutions			Industrial Air							Engine Mobile Solutions			Industrial Air
	Net sales	$	1,512,854		$	46,837		$	15,422		$	1,575,113	$	1,130,770	$	105,744		$	222,546		$	1,459,060
	Operating profit	210,428			17,677		(a)	8,814		(b)	236,919		174,616		24,830		(c)	3,047		(d)	202,493
	Net earnings attributable to CLARCOR	144,084			10,485			6,551			161,120		118,076		13,789			1,703			133,568
	Diluted earnings per share	$	2.83		$	0.21		$	0.13		$	3.17	$	2.34	$	0.27		$	0.03		$	2.64
	(a)	Includes adjustments to remove transaction costs of $3,035 and cost of sales related to the step-up of inventory to its estimated acquisition-date fair value of $1,368, which have been pushed back to the twelve months ended November 30, 2013 for pro forma presentation. Also includes adjustments to intangible asset amortization, depreciation expense and interest expense.
	(b)	Includes adjustments to remove transaction costs of $2,089 and cost of sales related to the step-up of inventory to its estimated acquisition-date fair value of $4,342, which have been pushed back to the twelve months ended November 30, 2013 for pro forma presentation. Also includes adjustments to intangible asset amortization, depreciation expense and interest expense.
	(c)	Includes adjustments to push back transaction costs of $3,035 and cost of sales related to the step-up of inventory to its estimated acquisition-date fair value of $1,368. Also includes adjustments to intangible asset amortization, depreciation expense and interest expense.
	(d)	Includes adjustments to push back transaction costs of $2,089 and cost of sales related to the step-up of inventory to its estimated acquisition-date fair value of $4,342. Also includes adjustments to intangible asset amortization, depreciation expense and interest expense.
Stanadyne [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Schedule of business acquisitions	The following table summarizes the estimated fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed at the date of acquisition of CLARCOR Engine Mobile Solutions:
	Accounts receivable		$	19,548
	Inventories		7,257
	Deferred income taxes		4,121
	Property, plant and equipment		10,176
	Goodwill		194,989
	Intangible assets		146,430
		Total assets acquired	382,521
	Current liabilities		8,963
	Other noncurrent liabilities		2,000
	Deferred income taxes		43,839
		Net assets acquired	$	327,719
Schedule of finite-lived and indefinite-lived intangible assets acquired	A summary of the intangible assets acquired is shown in the following table:
		Estimated			Weighted average	Amortization
	Identifiable intangible assets	Value			Useful life	Method
	Customer relationships	$	135,250		13 years	Straight-line
	Developed technology	11,000			10 years	Straight-line
	Trademarks	180			Indefinite	Not amortized
		$	146,430
Air Filtrations Segment of General Electric [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Schedule of business acquisitions	The following table summarizes the estimated fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed at the date of acquisition of CLARCOR Industrial Air:
	Accounts receivable		$	34,453
	Inventories		41,884
	Other current assets		837
	Property, plant and equipment		22,903
	Goodwill		74,324
	Intangible assets		133,020
		Total assets acquired	307,421
	Total liabilities		47,109
		Net assets acquired	$	260,312
Schedule of finite-lived and indefinite-lived intangible assets acquired	A summary of the intangible assets acquired, weighted-average useful lives and amortization methods is shown in the following table:
		Estimated			Weighted average	Amortization
	Identifiable intangible assets	Value			Useful life	Method
	Trade names	$	35,100		Indefinite	Not amortized
	Customer relationships	77,300			13 years	Straight-line
	Developed technology	19,900			13 years	Straight-line
	GE Transitional Trademark License	50			Less than 1 Year	Accelerated
	Backlog	670			Less than 1 Year	Accelerated
		$	133,020

Property_Plant_and_Equipment_T

Property, Plant and Equipment (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Nov. 29, 2014
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]
Schedule of property, plant and equipment	Property, plant and equipment included the following assets at November 30, 2014 and 2013:
		2014			2013
	Land	$	12,330		$	9,444
	Buildings and building fixtures	154,296			119,207
	Machinery and equipment	428,530			388,669
	Construction in process	50,764			24,420
		645,920			541,740
	Accumulated depreciation	(357,564		)	(332,787		)
		$	288,356		$	208,953

Goodwill_and_Acquired_Intangib1

Goodwill and Acquired Intangible Assets (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Nov. 29, 2014
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of goodwill	The following table reconciles the activity for goodwill by segment for fiscal years 2014 and 2013.  All goodwill is stated on a gross basis, as the Company has not recorded any impairment charges against goodwill.
		Engine/Mobile			Industrial/			Packaging		Total
		Filtration			Environmental
					Filtration
	November 30, 2012	$	21,593		$	220,331		$	—	$	241,924
	Acquisitions	—			—			—		—
	Currency translation adjustments	275			(900		)	—		(625		)
	November 30, 2013	$	21,868		$	219,431		$	—	$	241,299
	Acquisitions	194,989			74,324			—		269,313
	Currency translation adjustments	(743		)	(2,697		)	—		(3,440		)
	November 30, 2014	$	216,114		$	291,058		$	—	$	507,172
Schedule of intangible assets by segment	The following table summarizes acquired intangible assets by segment.  Other acquired intangible assets include parts manufacturer regulatory approvals, proprietary technology, patents and noncompete agreements.
		Engine/Mobile			Industrial/			Packaging		Total
		Filtration			Environmental
					Filtration
	November 30, 2014
	Indefinite Lived Intangibles:
	Trademarks - indefinite lived	$	783		$	76,150		$	—	$	76,933
	Finite Lived Intangibles:
	Trademarks - finite lived, gross	$	294		$	488		$	—	$	782
	Accumulated amortization	(119		)	(342		)	—		(461		)
	Trademarks - finite lived, net	$	175		$	146		$	—	$	321
	Customer relationships, gross	$	139,551		$	121,741		$	—	$	261,292
	Accumulated amortization	(8,109		)	(29,285		)	—		(37,394		)
	Customer relationships, net	$	131,442		$	92,456		$	—	$	223,898
	Other acquired intangibles, gross	$	11,243		$	60,958		$	—	$	72,201
	Accumulated amortization	(884		)	(24,891		)	—		(25,775		)
	Other acquired intangibles, net	$	10,359		$	36,067		$	—	$	46,426
	Total finite lived intangible assets, net	$	141,976		$	128,669		$	—	$	270,645
	Acquired intangible assets, less accumulated amortization	$	142,759		$	204,819		$	—	$	347,578
		Engine/Mobile			Industrial/			Packaging		Total
		Filtration			Environmental
					Filtration
	November 30, 2013
	Indefinite Lived Intangibles:
	Trademarks - indefinite lived	$	603		$	42,058		$	—	$	42,661
	Finite Lived Intangibles:
	Trademarks - finite lived, gross	$	307		$	488		$	—	$	795
	Accumulated amortization	(104		)	(329		)	—		(433		)
	Trademarks - finite lived, net	$	203		$	159		$	—	$	362
	Customer relationships, gross	$	4,309		$	45,244		$	—	$	49,553
	Accumulated amortization	(1,870		)	(20,161		)	—		(22,031		)
	Customer relationships, net	$	2,439		$	25,083		$	—	$	27,522
	Other acquired intangibles, gross	$	243		$	39,894		$	—	$	40,137
	Accumulated amortization	(243		)	(20,558		)	—		(20,801		)
	Other acquired intangibles, net	$	—		$	19,336		$	—	$	19,336
	Total finite lived intangible assets, net	$	2,642		$	44,578		$	—	$	47,220
	Acquired intangible assets, less accumulated amortization	$	3,245		$	86,636		$	—	$	89,881
Schedule of expected amortization expense	The following tables summarize actual amortization expense for the past three fiscal years and estimated amortization expense for the next five fiscal years.
	Amortization expense for the years ended:
	2014	$	20,362
	2013	5,904
	2012	5,890
	Estimated amortization expense for the next five years:
	2015	$	24,400
	2016	24,269
	2017	24,031
	2018	23,368
	2019	23,221

Fair_Value_Measurements_Tables

Fair Value Measurements (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Nov. 29, 2014
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Schedule of assets or liabilities that have a recurring fair value measurement	Assets or liabilities that have recurring fair value measurements are shown below:
		Fair Value Measurements at Reporting Date
		Total		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3
	November 30, 2014
	Restricted trust, included in Other noncurrent assets
	Mutual fund investments - equities	$	437	$	437	$	—	$	—
	Mutual fund investments - bonds	442		442		—		—
	Cash and equivalents	14		14		—		—
	Total restricted trust	$	893	$	893	$	—	$	—
	Foreign exchange contracts, included in Prepaid expenses and other current assets	$	362	$	—	$	362	$	—
	Foreign exchange contracts, included in Accrued liabilities	$	367			$	367
	November 30, 2013
	Restricted trust, included in Other noncurrent assets
	Mutual fund investments - equities	$	593	$	593	$	—	$	—
	Mutual fund investments - bonds	400		400		—		—
	Cash and equivalents	31		31		—		—
	Total restricted trust	$	1,024	$	1,024	$	—	$	—

Derivative_Instruments_and_Hed1

Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Nov. 29, 2014
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Derivative Instruments in Statement of Balance Sheet	The following table presents the fair values of derivative instruments included within the Consolidated Balance Sheets at November 30, 2014 and 2013:
		2014			2013
	Prepaid expenses and other current assets
	Designated as hedging instruments:
	Foreign exchange contracts	—			—
	Unrecognized firm sales commitments	248			—
	Total designated	$	248		$	—
	Not designated as hedging instruments:
	Foreign exchange contracts	362			—
	Total not designated	$	362		$	—
	Total derivatives	$	610		$	—
	Accrued liabilities
	Designated as hedging instruments:
	Foreign exchange contracts	245			—
	Unrecognized firm sales commitments	—			—
	Total designated	$	245		$	—
	Not designated as hedging instruments:
	Foreign exchange contracts	122			—
	Total not designated	$	122		$	—
	Total derivatives	$	367		$	—
Schedule of Derivative Instruments in Statement of Earnings	The following table presents the amounts affecting the Consolidated Statements of Earnings for the years ended November 30, 2014 and 2013:
		2014			2013
	Fair value hedges
	Foreign exchange contracts - Selling and administrative expenses	$	(250	)	$	—
	Unrecognized firm sales commitments - Selling and administrative expenses	252			—
	Total designated	$	2		$	—
	Not designated as hedges
	Foreign exchange contracts - Selling and administrative expenses	$	(135	)	$	—
	Foreign exchange contracts - Other, net income (expense)	2,421			—
	Total not designated	$	2,286		$	—

Accrued_Liabilities_Tables

Accrued Liabilities (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Nov. 29, 2014
Payables and Accruals [Abstract]
Schedule of accounts payable and accrued liabilities	Accrued liabilities at November 30, 2014 and 2013 were as follows:
		2014			2013
	Accrued salaries, wages and commissions	$	29,621		$	14,908
	Pension and postretirement healthcare benefits liabilities	279			278
	Compensated absences	9,967			8,600
	Accrued insurance liabilities	11,358			7,599
	Warranties	9,405			1,599
	Customer deposits	23,045			16,081
	Other accrued liabilities	36,361			29,309
		$	120,036		$	78,374
Schedule of product warranty liability	Changes in the Company’s warranty accrual for the years ended November 30, 2014, 2013 and 2012 are as follows:
		2014			2013			2012
	Warranty accrual at beginning of period	$	1,599		$	1,533		$	2,580
	Accruals for warranties issued during the period	2,187			844			514
	Adjustments related to business acquisitions	10,946			—			32
	Adjustments related to pre-existing warranties	818			(290		)	(691		)
	Settlements made during the period	(5,872		)	(500		)	(850		)
	Other adjustments, including currency translation	(273		)	12			(52		)
	Warranty accrual at end of period	$	9,405		$	1,599		$	1,533

LongTerm_Debt_Tables

Long-Term Debt (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Nov. 29, 2014
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of long-term debt	Long-term debt at November 30, 2014 and 2013 consisted of the following:
			2014		2013
	Credit Facility:
		Multicurrency Revolving Credit Facility	$	—	$	50,000
		Multicurrency Term Loan Facility	395,000		100,000
	Industrial Revenue Bonds, at weighted average interest rates of 0.22% and 0.23%, respectively, at November 30, 2014 and 2013		15,820		15,820
	Other long-term debt		743		816
	Total long-term debt		$	411,563	$	166,636
	Current portion of long-term debt		$	233	$	50,223
	Long-term debt, less current portion		$	411,330	$	116,413
Schedule of maturities of long-term debt	Principal maturities of long-term debt as of November 30, 2014 and for the next five fiscal years ending November 30 are as follows:
	2015	$	233
	2016	8,659
	2017	395,127
	2018	42
	2019	7
	Thereafter	7,495
		$	411,563

Leases_Tables

Leases (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Nov. 29, 2014
Leases [Abstract]
Schedule of future minimum rental payments for operating leases	The following table summarizes rent expense for the past three fiscal years and commitments for minimum rentals under noncancelable leases having initial or remaining terms in excess of one year at November 30, 2014.
	Rent expense for the years ended:
	2014	$	20,251
	2013	16,124
	2012	16,699
	Future minimum rentals under noncancelable leases:
	2015	$	12,853
	2016	9,110
	2017	5,902
	2018	3,368
	2019	2,379
	Thereafter	6,511

Pension_and_Other_Postretireme1

Pension and Other Postretirement Plans (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Nov. 29, 2014
Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Net Funded Status	The following tables show reconciliations of the changes in benefit obligations and plan assets for our pension plans and other postretirement benefits plan as of November 30, 2014 and 2013.  The accrued pension benefit obligation includes an unfunded benefit obligation of $2,358 and $2,012 as of November 30, 2014 and 2013, respectively, related to the Company’s U.S. combined nonqualified plans.
		Pension Benefits							Other Postretirement Benefits
		2014				2013			2014			2013
	Change in benefit obligation
	Benefit obligation at beginning of year	$	176,099			$	217,987		$	356		$	442
	Currency translation	(357		)		190			—			—
	Service cost	1,990				2,485			—			—
	Interest cost	7,704				6,934			10			9
	Plan participants' contributions	22				39			—			—
	Actuarial (gains) losses	27,232				(22,472		)	17			(73		)
	Benefits paid	(7,708		)		(29,064		)	(197		)	(251		)
	Retiree contributions	—				—			211			229
	Benefit obligation at end of year	$	204,982			$	176,099		$	397		$	356
		Pension Benefits							Other Postretirement Benefits
		2014				2013			2014			2013
	Change in plan assets
	Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	$	156,384			$	146,307		$	—		$	—
	Currency translation	(348		)		174			—			—
	Actual return on plan assets	23,396				14,305			—			—
	Employer contributions	534				24,623			197			251
	Plan participants' contributions	22				39			—			—
	Benefits paid	(7,708		)		(29,064		)	(197		)	(251		)
	Fair value of plan assets at end of year	$	172,280			$	156,384		$	—		$	—
	Funded status	$	(32,702	)		$	(19,715	)	$	(397	)	$	(356	)
	Accumulated benefit obligation at end of year	$	199,476			$	170,433		n/a			n/a
	Assumptions:
	Discount rate - qualified plans	3.75%				4.50%			3.25%			3.00%
	Discount rate - nonqualified plans	3.00%				3.25%			n/a			n/a
	Rate of compensation increase - qualified plans	4.00%				4.00%			n/a			n/a
	Rate of compensation increase - nonqualified plans	4.00%				4.00%			n/a			n/a
	Measurement date	11/30/14				11/30/13			11/30/14			11/30/13
Schedule of Amounts Recognized in Balance Sheet
		Pension Benefits							Other Postretirement Benefits
		2014				2013			2014			2013
	Amounts recognized in the Consolidated Balance Sheets as of November 30
	Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	$	(221	)		$	(216	)	$	(59	)	$	(63	)
	Long-term pension and postretirement healthcare benefits liabilities	(32,481		)		(19,499		)	(338		)	(293		)
	Funded status	$	(32,702	)		$	(19,715	)	$	(397	)	$	(356	)
	Accumulated other comprehensive loss, pre-tax	$	61,096			$	48,902		$	(1,346	)	$	(1,632	)
	Amounts recognized in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss, as of November 30
	Unrecognized net actuarial loss (gain)	$	61,098			$	48,914		$	(873	)	$	(1,037	)
	Unrecognized net prior service credit	(2		)		(12		)	(473		)	(595		)
	Accumulated other comprehensive loss, pre-tax	61,096				48,902			(1,346		)	(1,632		)
	Deferred taxes	(22,535		)		(17,979		)	475			587
	Accumulated other comprehensive loss, after-tax	$	38,561			$	30,923		$	(871	)	$	(1,045	)
Schedule of Defined Benefit Plan Amounts Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)	The amounts affecting Accumulated other comprehensive loss for the years ended November 30, 2014 and 2013 are as follows:
		Pension Benefits							Other Postretirement Benefits
		2014				2013			2014			2013
	Amortization of prior service (cost) credit, net of tax of $(5), $(6) and $(43), $(44), respectively	$	5			$	3		$	79		$	79
	Amortization of actuarial (losses) gains, net of tax of $1,063, $3,060 and $(52), $(54), respectively	(1,821		)		(5,498		)	95			95
	Current year actuarial losses (gains), net of tax of $(5,559), $9,304 and $(6), $26, respectively	9,509				(16,637		)	11			(46		)
	Effect of change in deferred tax rate	(78		)		982			(11		)	(7		)
	Total	$	7,615			$	(21,150	)	$	174		$	121
Schedule of Allocation of Plan Assets	As of the November 30th measurement dates, the fair values of actual pension asset allocations were as follows:
		2014			2013
	Equity securities	39.9	%		51	%
	Debt securities	59.5	%		48.7	%
	Real estate	—	%		—	%
	Cash and cash equivalents	0.6	%		0.3	%
		100	%		100	%
Schedule of Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis	The following table summarizes the fair value of the pension plans’ assets.
		Fair Value Measurements at Reporting Date
		Total				Level 1			Level 2			Level 3
	November 30, 2014
	U.S. equity securities funds	$	47,181			$	47,181		$	—		$	—
	Non-U.S. equity securities funds	$	21,546			21,546			—			—
	Fixed income securities funds	$	102,561			102,561			—			—
	Cash and equivalents funds	$	703			703			—			—
	Total	$	171,991			$	171,991		$	—		$	—
	Other items to reconcile to fair value of plan assets	289
	Fair value of plan assets	$	172,280
		Fair Value Measurements at Reporting Date
		Total				Level 1			Level 2			Level 3
	November 30, 2013
	U.S. equity securities funds	$	55,129			$	55,129		$	—		$	—
	Non-U.S. equity securities funds	$	24,587			24,587			—			—
	Fixed income securities funds	$	76,121			76,121			—			—
	Cash and equivalents funds	$	547			547			—			—
	Total	$	156,384			$	156,384		$	—		$	—
	Other items to reconcile to fair value of plan assets	—
	Fair value of plan assets	$	156,384
Schedule of Net Benefit Costs	The components of net periodic benefit cost for pensions are shown below.  Net periodic benefit cost is based on assumptions determined at the prior year-end measurement date.  Increases in the liability due to changes in plan benefits are recognized in the net periodic benefit costs through straight-line amortization over the average remaining service period of employees expected to receive benefits.
		Pension Benefits
		2014				2013			2012
	Components of net periodic benefit cost
	Service cost	$	1,990			$	2,485		$	2,126
	Interest cost	7,704				6,934			7,715
	Expected return on plan assets	(11,306		)		(10,795		)	(9,181		)
	Settlement costs	—				3,087			—
	Amortization of unrecognized:
	Prior service cost	(10		)		(9		)	(10		)
	Net actuarial loss	2,884				5,471			8,323
	Net periodic benefit cost	$	1,262			$	7,173		$	8,973
	Assumptions:
	Discount rate - qualified plans	4.50%				3.50%			4.50%
	Discount rate - nonqualified plans	3.25%				3.25%			1.75%
	Expected return on plan assets	7.50%				7.50%			7.50%
	Rate of compensation increase - qualified plans	4.00%				4.00%			4.00%
	Rate of compensation increase - nonqualified plans	4.00%				4.00%			4.00%
	Measurement date - qualified plans	11/30/13				11/30/12			11/30/11
	Measurement date - nonqualified plans	11/30/13				11/30/13			11/30/12
	The components of net periodic benefit income for postretirement healthcare benefits are shown below.
		Other Postretirement Benefits
		2014				2013			2012
	Components of net periodic benefit income
	Interest cost	$	10			$	9		$	17
	Amortization of unrecognized:
	Prior service cost	(122		)		(122		)	(122		)
	Net actuarial gain	(147		)		(149		)	(121		)
	Net periodic benefit income	$	(259	)		$	(262	)	$	(226	)
	Assumptions:
	Discount rate	3		%		2.25		%	3.5		%
	Measurement date	11/30/13				11/30/12			11/30/11
Schedule of Amounts in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) to be Recognized over Next Fiscal Year	The estimated amounts that will be amortized from Accumulated other comprehensive loss at November 30, 2014 into net periodic benefit cost, pre-tax, in fiscal year 2015 are as follows:
		Pension				Other
		Benefits				Postretirement
						Benefits
	Prior service credit	$	(3	)		$	(123	)
	Actuarial loss (gain)	3,869				(87		)
	Total	$	3,866			$	(210	)
Schedule of Expected Benefit Payments	The expected cash benefit payments from the plans for the next ten fiscal years are as follows:
		Pension				Other
		Benefits				Postretirement
						Benefits
	2015	$	8,427			$	58
	2016	8,754				49
	2017	9,229				41
	2018	9,703				37
	2019	10,184				34
	2020-2024	59,950				124
Schedule of Costs of Retirement Plans	The Company recognized expense related to these plans for the past three fiscal years as follows:
	2014	$	7,945
	2013	4,482
	2012	4,377

Income_Taxes_Tables

Income Taxes (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Nov. 29, 2014
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Summary of income tax contingencies	The following is a reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of gross unrecognized tax benefits for uncertain tax positions, including positions which impact only the timing of tax benefits for the years ended November 30, 2014, 2013 and 2012.
		2014				2013				2012
	Unrecognized tax benefits at December 1,	$	2,155			$	2,209			$	3,015
	Additions for current period tax positions	465				668				382
	Reductions for current period tax positions	—				—				(37		)
	Additions for prior period tax positions	40				—				—
	Reductions for prior period tax positions	—				(40		)		(631		)
	Reductions for lapse of statute of limitations/settlements	(240		)		(431		)		(460		)
	Changes in interest and penalties	67				(251		)		(60		)
	Unrecognized tax benefits at November 30,	$	2,487			$	2,155			$	2,209
Schedule of provisions for income taxes	The provision for income taxes consisted of:
		2014				2013				2012
	Current:
	Federal	$	56,764			$	34,414			$	37,673
	State	4,760				2,918				2,484
	Foreign	10,112				9,096				10,228
	Deferred:
	Federal	(4,102		)		8,676				8,763
	State	(359		)		(165		)		805
	Foreign	205				1,011				(296		)
		$	67,380			$	55,950			$	59,657
Schedule of earnings before income taxes and noncontrolling interests	Earnings before income taxes and noncontrolling interests included the following components:
		2014				2013				2012
	Domestic income	$	166,101			$	141,224			$	145,433
	Foreign income	45,462				33,076				37,564
		$	211,563			$	174,300			$	182,997
Schedule of effective tax rate breakdown	The provision for income taxes resulted in effective tax rates that differ from the statutory federal income tax rates.  The reasons for these differences are as follows:
		Percent of Pre-Tax Earnings
		2014			2013			2012
	Statutory U.S. tax rates	35	%		35	%		35	%
	State income taxes, net of federal benefit	1.3			1			1.4
	Tax credits	(0.2	)		(0.6	)		(0.1	)
	Foreign taxes at different rates, net of credits	(2.3	)		(1.6	)		(2.0	)
	Domestic production activities deduction	(2.7	)		(2.2	)		(2.6	)
	Other, net	0.7			0.5			0.9
		31.8	%		32.1	%		32.6	%
Components of net deferred tax liabilities	The components of the net deferred tax liability as of November 30, 2014 and 2013 were as follows:
		2014				2013
	Deferred tax assets:
	Deferred compensation	$	9,074			$	7,945
	Loss carryforward and tax credit items	19,620				2,529
	Accounts receivable	6,538				5,973
	Inventories	5,484				5,000
	Pensions	10,019				4,781
	Accrued liabilities and other	6,999				1,219
	Valuation allowance	(1,268		)		(1,102		)
	Total deferred tax assets, net	56,466				26,345
	Deferred tax liabilities:
	Percentage of completion	(740		)		(539		)
	Plant assets	(24,818		)		(24,182		)
	Goodwill and acquired intangible assets	(97,179		)		(40,380		)
	Other deferred tax liabilities	(230		)		(345		)
	Total deferred tax liabilities	(122,967		)		(65,446		)
	Deferred tax liability, net	$	(66,501	)		$	(39,101	)

Incentive_Plans_and_StockBased1

Incentive Plans and Stock-Based Compensation (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Nov. 29, 2014
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]
Allocation of share-based compensation costs	The following table summarizes information related to stock options and stock option exercises during the years ended November 30, 2014, 2013 and 2012.
		2014				2013				2012
	Pre-tax compensation expense	$	5,025			$	3,212			$	4,997
	Deferred tax benefits	(1,834		)		(1,153		)		(1,836		)
	Excess tax benefits associated with tax deductions over the amount of compensation expense recognized in the consolidated financial statements	2,668				7,231				2,007
	Fair value of options granted	5,186				3,868				6,407
	Total intrinsic value of options exercised	9,696				29,384				8,793
	Cash received upon exercise of options	10,738				33,778				5,170
	Addition to capital in excess of par value due to exercise of stock options	13,084				38,903				5,440
	The following table summarizes information related to restricted stock unit awards during the years ended November 30, 2014, 2013 and 2012.
		2014				2013				2012
	Pre-tax compensation expense	$	1,373			$	888			$	1,229
	Deferred tax benefits	(501		)		(319		)		(451		)
	Excess tax (expense) benefit associated with tax deductions (under) over the amount of compensation expense recognized in the consolidated financial statements	101				1,280				(88		)
	Fair value of restricted stock unit awards on date of grant	1,524				1,068				1,489
	Fair value of restricted stock unit awards vested	893				621				2,359
	The following table summarizes information related to directors' stock compensation during the years ended November 30, 2014, 2013 and 2012.
		2014				2013				2012
	Pre-tax compensation expense	$	880			$	960			$	200
	Shares of Company common stock issued under the plans	15,400				18,256				4,055
Schedule of nonqualified stock option activity	The following table summarizes activity with respect to nonqualified stock options granted by the Company and includes options granted under the 2014, 2009, 2004 and 1994 Incentive Plans.
		2014							2013						2012
		Options			Weighted				Options			Weighted			Options			Weighted
		Granted			Average				Granted			Average			Granted			Average
		under			Exercise				under			Exercise			under			Exercise
		Incentive			Price				Incentive			Price			Incentive			Price
		Plans							Plans						Plans
	Outstanding at beginning of year	2,208,314			$	40.76			3,037,151			$	36.09		2,907,533			$	32.39
	Granted	450,700			$	61.49			387,500			$	45.25		512,850			$	49.84
	Exercised	(322,473	)		$	33.3			(1,191,752	)		$	30.3		(353,793	)		$	25.28
	Surrendered	(25,821	)		$	52.47			(24,585	)		$	42.48		(29,439	)		$	40.17
	Outstanding at end of year	2,310,720			$	45.71			2,208,314			$	40.76		3,037,151			$	36.09
	Exercisable at end of year	1,409,359			$	40.7			1,413,100			$	38.19		2,035,267			$	32.54
Schedule of outstanding and exercisable options	The following table summarizes information about the Company’s outstanding and exercisable options at November 30, 2014.
			Options Outstanding											Options Exercisable
	Range of Exercise		Number		Weighted				Intrinsic Value				Weighted	Number		Weighted				Intrinsic Value		Weighted
	Prices				Average								Average			Average						Average
					Exercise								Remaining Life			Exercise						Remaining Life
					Price								in Years			Price						in Years
	$25.31 - $28.79		66,100		$	26.59			$	2,598			2.63	66,100		$	26.59			$	2,598	2.63
	$31.96 - $36.48		523,009		$	33.62			16,876				3.72	523,009		$	33.62			16,876		3.72
	$42.86 - $49.91		1,279,161		$	46.2			25,193				7.17	808,125		$	46.13			15,969		6.87
	$55.01 - $61.57		442,450		$	61.45			1,962				9.05	12,125		$	61.23			56		9.02
			2,310,720		$	45.71			$	46,629			6.62	1,409,359		$	40.7			$	35,499	5.52
Schedule of Black-Scholes option pricing model on options granted	The fair value of each option grant is estimated on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option pricing model with the following weighted average assumptions by grant year.
		2014				2013				2012
	Weighted average fair value per option at the date of grant for options granted	$	11.51			$	9.98			$	12.49
	Risk-free interest rate	1.55		%		1.19		%		1.38		%
	Expected dividend yield	1.1		%		1.19		%		0.96		%
	Expected volatility factor	21.38		%		25.8		%		26.52		%
	Expected option term in years	5				5.4				6.1
Schedule of restricted stock unit awards	The following table summarizes the restricted stock unit awards.
		2014							2013						2012
		Units			Weighted				Units			Weighted			Units			Weighted
					Average							Average						Average
					Grant Date							Grant Date						Grant Date
					Fair Value							Fair Value						Fair Value
	Nonvested at beginning of year	48,044			$	45.18			39,945			$	43.16		71,545			$	36.95
	Granted	24,808			$	61.42			23,624			$	45.19		29,839			$	49.91
	Vested	(20,156	)		$	44.29			(15,525	)		$	40.01		(60,320	)		$	39.11
	Surrendered	(1,684	)		$	54.36			—			$	—		(1,119	)		$	44.15
	Nonvested at end of year	51,012			$	53.12			48,044			$	45.18		39,945			$	43.16
Schedule of shares issues under employee stock purchase plans	The Company issued stock under this plan with fair value upon issuance as follows during the years ended November 30, 2014, 2013 and 2012.
		2014				2013				2012
	Company stock issued under the plan	$	1,338			$	1,269			$	1,244

Earnings_Per_Share_and_Stock_R1

Earnings Per Share and Stock Repurchase Activity (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Nov. 29, 2014
Earnings Per Share and Stock Repurchase Activity [Abstract]
Schedule of Weighted Average Number of Shares	The following table provides a reconciliation of the denominators utilized in the calculation of basic and diluted earnings per share:
		2014		2013		2012
	Weighted average number of shares outstanding	50,405,549		49,988,577		50,285,480
	Dilutive effect of stock-based arrangements	465,700		550,370		596,711
	Weighted average number of diluted shares outstanding	50,871,249		50,538,947		50,882,191
	Net earnings attributable to CLARCOR Inc.	$	144,084	$	118,076	$	122,986
	Net earnings per common share attributable to CLARCOR Inc. - Basic	$	2.86	$	2.36	$	2.45
	Net earnings per common share attributable to CLARCOR Inc. - Diluted	$	2.83	$	2.34	$	2.42
Additional Information Earnings Per Share and Stock Repurchase Activity	The following table provides additional information regarding the calculation of earnings per share and stock repurchase activity.
		2014		2013		2012
	Number of antidilutive options with exercise prices greater than the average market price excluded from the computation of dilutive earnings per share	441,033		125,135		508,167
	Common stock repurchased and retired pursuant to the Company's stock repurchase program	$	32,822	$	27,708	$	37,320
	Number of shares repurchased and retired pursuant to the Company's stock repurchase program	535,703		534,100		792,881

Segment_Information_Tables

Segment Information (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Nov. 29, 2014
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment	The following tables provides segment data for the years ended November 30, 2014, 2013 and 2012:
		2014		2013			2012
	Net sales:
	Engine/Mobile Filtration	$	603,805	$	507,024		$	503,607
	Industrial/Environmental Filtration	833,100		549,746			541,364
	Packaging	75,949		74,000			76,794
		$	1,512,854	$	1,130,770		$	1,121,765
	Operating profit:
	Engine/Mobile Filtration	$	122,365	$	106,345		$	111,653
	Industrial/Environmental Filtration	83,351		61,996			64,766
	Packaging	4,712		6,275			6,295
		210,428		174,616			182,714
	Other income (expense), net	1,135		(316		)	283
	Earnings before income taxes	$	211,563	$	174,300		$	182,997
		2014		2013			2012
	Identifiable assets:
	Engine/Mobile Filtration	$	781,204	$	397,545		$	372,011
	Industrial/Environmental Filtration	1,022,996		715,759			706,610
	Packaging	41,817		41,030			36,350
	Corporate	42,752		294,509			90,531
		$	1,888,769	$	1,448,843		$	1,205,502
	Additions to property, plant and equipment:
	Engine/Mobile Filtration	$	46,496	$	19,809		$	24,062
	Industrial/Environmental Filtration	20,215		21,467			9,264
	Packaging	1,989		2,467			3,250
	Corporate	4,884		908			71
		$	73,584	$	44,651		$	36,647
	Depreciation and amortization:
	Engine/Mobile Filtration	$	18,170	$	10,488		$	9,327
	Industrial/Environmental Filtration	28,789		18,093			18,692
	Packaging	2,438		2,859			3,090
	Corporate	1,030		793			706
		$	50,427	$	32,233		$	31,815
Schedule of Revenue from External Customers Attributed to Foreign Countries by Geographic Area	Financial data relating to the geographic areas in which the Company operates are shown for the years ended November 30, 2014, 2013 and 2012.  Net sales by geographic area are based on sales to final customers within that region.
		2014		2013			2012
	Net sales:
	United States	$	1,027,028	$	778,952		$	779,811
	Europe	165,446		96,255			102,144
	Asia	146,859		103,030			98,880
	Other International	173,521		152,533			140,930
		$	1,512,854	$	1,130,770		$	1,121,765
	Property, plant and equipment, at cost, less accumulated depreciation:
	United States	$	238,413	$	183,166		$	173,018
	Europe	24,783		12,499			3,619
	Asia	11,466		2,702			8,013
	Other International	13,694		10,586			10,451
		$	288,356	$	208,953		$	195,101

Selected_Quarterly_Financial_D1

Selected Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited) (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Nov. 29, 2014
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Quarterly Financial Information	The following table provides unaudited quarterly data for 2014 and 2013:
		First		Second		Third		Fourth
		Quarter		Quarter		Quarter		Quarter
	2014
	Net sales	$	312,685	$	386,642	$	400,152	$	413,375
	Gross profit	96,587		125,370		135,325		139,753
	Net earnings	24,341		34,546		41,765		43,531
	Net earnings attributable to CLARCOR Inc.	24,321		34,552		41,703		43,508
	Net earnings per common share attributable to CLARCOR Inc. - Basic	$	0.48	$	0.68	$	0.83	$	0.87
	Net earnings per common share attributable to CLARCOR Inc. - Diluted	$	0.48	$	0.68	$	0.82	$	0.86
	Dividends declared and paid per common share	$	0.17	$	0.17	$	0.17	$	0.2
	2013
	Net sales	$	256,271	$	287,583	$	289,126	$	297,790
	Gross profit	81,486		98,214		91,900		98,609
	Net earnings	23,528		33,153		28,773		32,896
	Net earnings attributable to CLARCOR Inc.	23,462		33,051		28,707		32,856
	Net earnings per common share attributable to CLARCOR Inc. - Basic	$	0.47	$	0.66	$	0.57	$	0.65
	Net earnings per common share attributable to CLARCOR Inc. - Diluted	$	0.47	$	0.66	$	0.57	$	0.65
	Dividends declared and paid per common share	$	0.135	$	0.135	$	0.135	$	0.17

Basis_of_Presentation_and_Sign3

Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Nov. 29, 2014	Nov. 30, 2013	Dec. 01, 2012
	segments
Principles of Consolidation
Number of segments	3
Accounting Period
Fiscal Period Duration	364 days	364 days	364 days
Foreign Currency Translation and Transactions
Foreign currency transaction gain (loss)	$1,251	($520)	($847)
Cash and Cash Equivalents and Restricted Cash
Restricted cash, noncurrent	1,294	1,896
Stock-based Compensation
Recognition period of compensation expenses from date of grant (in years)	4 years
Revenue Recognition
Revenue recognized under percentage of completion method	35,537	42,002	34,466
Research and Development Expense
Research and development expense	18,102	11,334	11,811
Guarantees
Letters of credit outstanding, amount	$33,359	$28,541
Patents [Member] | Weighted Average [Member]
Goodwill and Acquired Intangible Assets
Useful life of intangible assets (in years)	14 years
Other Acquired Intangibles [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Goodwill and Acquired Intangible Assets
Useful life of intangible assets (in years)	1 year
Other Acquired Intangibles [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Goodwill and Acquired Intangible Assets
Useful life of intangible assets (in years)	30 years
Building and Building Improvements [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment
Useful life of property, plant and equipment (in years)	15 years
Building and Building Improvements [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment
Useful life of property, plant and equipment (in years)	40 years
Machinery and Equipment [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment
Useful life of property, plant and equipment (in years)	3 years
Machinery and Equipment [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment
Useful life of property, plant and equipment (in years)	15 years

Basis_of_Presentation_and_Sign4

Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies (Schedule of Inventory) (Details) (USD $)	Nov. 29, 2014	Nov. 30, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Raw materials	$101,848	$80,741
Work in process	41,729	34,402
Finished products	131,141	103,643
Inventories	$274,718	$218,786

Basis_of_Presentation_and_Sign5

Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies (Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Nov. 29, 2014
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	($29,814)
Other comprehensive loss before reclassifications and tax	-31,562
Tax benefit	5,565
Other comprehensive loss before reclassifications, net of tax	-25,997
Reclassifications, before tax	2,651
Tax expense	-920
Reclassifications, net of tax	1,731
Other comprehensive loss, net of tax	-24,266
Ending balance	-54,080
Pension Benefits [Member]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	-29,878
Other comprehensive loss before reclassifications and tax	-15,085
Tax benefit	5,565
Other comprehensive loss before reclassifications, net of tax	-9,520
Reclassifications, before tax	2,651	[1]
Tax expense	-920
Reclassifications, net of tax	1,731
Other comprehensive loss, net of tax	-7,789
Ending balance	-37,667
Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments [Member]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	64
Other comprehensive loss before reclassifications and tax	-16,477
Tax benefit	0
Other comprehensive loss before reclassifications, net of tax	-16,477
Reclassifications, before tax	0
Tax expense	0
Reclassifications, net of tax	0
Other comprehensive loss, net of tax	-16,477
Ending balance	($16,413)
[1]	Includes amortization of prior service cost and net actuarial loss included in net periodic benefit cost (see Note J) that were reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss to selling and administrative expenses.

Business_Acquisitions_Investme2

Business Acquisitions, Investments and Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests (Engine Mobile Solutions) (Details) (USD $)	0 Months Ended	7 Months Ended
	1-May-14	Nov. 29, 2014	Nov. 30, 2013	Dec. 01, 2012
	employee
Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired, Goodwill, and Liabilities Assumed, Net
Goodwill		$507,172,000	$241,299,000	$241,924,000
Stanadyne [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Acquired workforce, number of employees	200
Cash acquired from acquisition	0
Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired, Goodwill, and Liabilities Assumed, Net
Accounts receivable	19,548,000
Inventories	7,257,000
Deferred income taxes	4,121,000
Property, plant and equipment	10,176,000
Goodwill	194,989,000
Intangible assets	146,430,000
Total assets acquired	382,521,000
Current liabilities	8,963,000
Other noncurrent liabilities	2,000,000
Deferred income taxes	43,839,000
Net assets acquired	327,719,000
Intangible Assets Acquired
Finite-lived intangible assets acquired	146,430,000
Net sales		65,701,000
Operating profit		11,604,000
Term Loan [Member] | Stanadyne [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Amount funded	315,000,000
Credit Facility - Swing Line [Member] | Stanadyne [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Amount borrowed	10,000,000
Customer Relationships [Member] | Stanadyne [Member]
Intangible Assets Acquired
Finite-lived intangible assets acquired	135,250,000
Weighted average useful life	13 years
Amortization method	Straight-line
Developed Technology Rights [Member] | Stanadyne [Member]
Intangible Assets Acquired
Finite-lived intangible assets acquired	11,000,000
Weighted average useful life	10 years
Amortization method	Straight-line
Trademarks [Member] | Stanadyne [Member]
Intangible Assets Acquired
Indefinite-lived intangible assets acquired	$180,000

Business_Acquisitions_Investme3

Business Acquisitions, Investments and Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests (Industrial Air) (Details) (USD $)	0 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 16, 2013	Nov. 29, 2014	Nov. 30, 2013	Dec. 01, 2012
	employee
Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired, Goodwill, and Liabilities Assumed, Net
Goodwill		$507,172,000	$241,299,000	$241,924,000
Air Filtrations Segment of General Electric [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Acquired workforce, number of employees	700
Payments to acquire businesses	263,758,000
Cash acquired from acquisition	3,446,000
Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired, Goodwill, and Liabilities Assumed, Net
Accounts receivable	34,453,000
Inventories	41,884,000
Deferred income taxes	837,000
Property, plant and equipment	22,903,000
Goodwill	74,324,000
Intangible assets	133,020,000
Total assets acquired	307,421,000
Total liabilities	47,109,000
Net assets acquired	260,312,000
Intangible Assets Acquired
Finite-lived intangible assets acquired	133,020,000
Net sales		226,709,000
Operating profit		13,984,000
Term Loan [Member] | Air Filtrations Segment of General Electric [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Amount funded	100,000,000
Revolving Credit Facility [Member] | Air Filtrations Segment of General Electric [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Amount borrowed	50,000,000
Trade Names [Member] | Air Filtrations Segment of General Electric [Member]
Intangible Assets Acquired
Finite-lived intangible assets acquired	35,100,000
Amortization method	Not amortized
Customer Relationships [Member] | Air Filtrations Segment of General Electric [Member]
Intangible Assets Acquired
Finite-lived intangible assets acquired	77,300,000
Weighted average useful life	13 years
Amortization method	Straight-line
Developed Technology Rights [Member] | Air Filtrations Segment of General Electric [Member]
Intangible Assets Acquired
Finite-lived intangible assets acquired	19,900,000
Weighted average useful life	13 years
Amortization method	Straight-line
Trademarks [Member] | Air Filtrations Segment of General Electric [Member]
Intangible Assets Acquired
Finite-lived intangible assets acquired	50,000
Amortization method	Accelerated
Order or Production Backlog [Member] | Air Filtrations Segment of General Electric [Member]
Intangible Assets Acquired
Finite-lived intangible assets acquired	$670,000
Amortization method	Accelerated

Business_Acquisitions_Investme4

Business Acquisitions, Investments and Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests (Pro Forma Results) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Nov. 29, 2014	Aug. 30, 2014	31-May-14	Mar. 01, 2014	Nov. 30, 2013	Aug. 31, 2013	Jun. 01, 2013	Mar. 02, 2013	Nov. 29, 2014		Nov. 30, 2013		Dec. 01, 2012
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Net sales	$413,375	$400,152	$386,642	$312,685	$297,790	$289,126	$287,583	$256,271	$1,512,854		$1,130,770		$1,121,765
Net sales, pro forma									1,575,113		1,459,060
Operating profit	139,753	135,325	125,370	96,587	98,609	91,900	98,214	81,486	497,035		370,209		380,332
Operating profit, pro forma									236,919		202,493
Net earnings attributable to CLARCOR Inc.	43,508	41,703	34,552	24,321	32,856	28,707	33,051	23,462	144,084		118,076		122,986
Net earnings, pro forma									161,120		133,568
Diluted earnings per share (in dollars per share)	$0.86	$0.82	$0.68	$0.48	$0.65	$0.57	$0.66	$0.47	$2.83		$2.34		$2.42
Diluted earnings per share, pro forma (in dollars per share)									$3.17		$2.64
Engine Mobile Filtration [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Net sales attributable to CLARCOR									46,837		105,744
Operating profit attributable to CLARCOR									17,677	[1]	24,830	[2]
Net earnings attributable to CLARCOR									10,485		13,789
Diluted earnings per share, attributable to CLARCOR (in dollars per share)									$0.21		$0.27
Transaction costs removal, amount									3,035		3,035
Cost of inventory step up									1,368		1,368
Industrial Environmental Filtration [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Net sales attributable to CLARCOR									15,422		222,546
Operating profit attributable to CLARCOR									8,814	[3]	3,047	[4]
Net earnings attributable to CLARCOR									6,551		1,703
Diluted earnings per share, attributable to CLARCOR (in dollars per share)									$0.13		$0.03
Transaction costs removal, amount									2,089		2,089
Cost of inventory step up									4,342		4,342
As Reported [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Net sales									1,512,854		1,130,770
Operating profit									210,428		174,616
Net earnings attributable to CLARCOR Inc.									$144,084		$118,076
Diluted earnings per share (in dollars per share)									$2.83		$2.34
[1]	Includes adjustments to remove transaction costs of $3,035 and cost of sales related to the step-up of inventory to its estimated acquisition-date fair value of $1,368, which have been pushed back to the twelve months ended November 30, 2013 for pro forma presentation. Also includes adjustments to intangible asset amortization, depreciation expense and interest expense.
[2]	Includes adjustments to push back transaction costs of $3,035 and cost of sales related to the step-up of inventory to its estimated acquisition-date fair value of $1,368. Also includes adjustments to intangible asset amortization, depreciation expense and interest expense.
[3]	Includes adjustments to remove transaction costs of $2,089 and cost of sales related to the step-up of inventory to its estimated acquisition-date fair value of $4,342, which have been pushed back to the twelve months ended November 30, 2013 for pro forma presentation. Also includes adjustments to intangible asset amortization, depreciation expense and interest expense.
[4]	Includes adjustments to push back transaction costs of $2,089 and cost of sales related to the step-up of inventory to its estimated acquisition-date fair value of $4,342. Also includes adjustments to intangible asset amortization, depreciation expense and interest expense.

Business_Acquisitions_Investme5

Business Acquisitions, Investments and Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests (Bekaert Business) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended			0 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Nov. 29, 2014	Aug. 30, 2014	31-May-14	Mar. 01, 2014	Nov. 30, 2013	Aug. 31, 2013	Jun. 01, 2013	Mar. 02, 2013	Nov. 29, 2014	Nov. 30, 2013	Dec. 01, 2012	Dec. 03, 2013
												employee
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Business acquisitions, net of cash acquired									$595,328	$0	$5,411
Bargain purchase gain									2,815	0	0
Gross profit	139,753	135,325	125,370	96,587	98,609	91,900	98,214	81,486	497,035	370,209	380,332
Bekaert Advanced Filtration SA - Belgium [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Business acquisition, percentage of voting interests acquired												100.00%
Bekaert Advanced Filtration SA - Indonesia [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Business acquisition, percentage of voting interests acquired												100.00%
Bekaert Business [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Business acquisitions, net of cash acquired												7,297
Acquired workforce, number of employees												170
Finite-lived intangible assets acquired												2,057
Net sales									13,926
Gross profit									($21)

Business_Acquisitions_Investme6

Business Acquisitions, Investments and Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests (Modular) (Details) (Modular [Member], USD $)	0 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	8-May-14	8-May-13	9-May-12	9-May-12
Modular [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Business acquisition, effective date of acquisition			9-May-12
Business acquisition, percentage of voting interests acquired			100.00%	100.00%
Business acquisition, name of acquired entity			Modular Engineering Company Pty Ltd.
Purchase price excluding cash acquired			$7,875	$7,875
Payments to acquire businesses			5,237
Payments for Previous Acquisition	$1,391	$1,530

Business_Acquisitions_Investme7

Business Acquisitions, Investments and Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests (Investments) (Details) (USD $)	0 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	1-May-08	Nov. 29, 2014	Nov. 30, 2013	Dec. 01, 2012
Investment [Line Items]
Investment in affiliate		$1,073	$615	$1,023
Equity Method Investee [Member]
Investment [Line Items]
Equity method investment, ownership percentage	30.00%
Name of Investment	BioProcess H2O LLC
Equity method investment, aggregate cost	4,000
Equity method investments		2,918	3,097
Cost-method Investments [Member]
Investment [Line Items]
Name of Investment	BioProcess Algae LLC
Cost method investment, ownership percentage	14.85%
Investment in affiliate		1,073	392	1,114
Cost method investments		3,277	2,204
Investment income, dividend		$0	$0	$1,200

Business_Acquisitions_Investme8

Business Acquisitions, Investments and Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests (Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests) (Details) (SINFA [Member])	1 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2007	Nov. 29, 2014	Mar. 07, 2007
SINFA [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Business acquisition, effective date of acquisition	7-Mar-07
Noncontrolling interest, percentage			80.00%
Business acquisition, name of acquired entity	Sinfa SA
Business acquisition, description of acquired entity	manufacturer of automotive and heavy-duty engine filters
Noncontrolling interest held by noncontrolling owners			20.00%
Temporary equity, accounting treatment		The Redeemable noncontrolling interests will be accreted to the redemption price, through equity, at the point at which the redemption becomes probable

Property_Plant_and_Equipment_D

Property, Plant and Equipment (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Nov. 29, 2014	Nov. 30, 2013	Dec. 01, 2012
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Land	$12,330	$9,444
Buildings and building fixtures	154,296	119,207
Machinery and equipment	428,530	388,669
Construction in process	50,764	24,420
Property, plant and equipment, at cost, gross	645,920	541,740
Accumulated depreciation	-357,564	-332,787
Property, plant and equipment, at cost, less accumulated depreciation	288,356	208,953	195,101
Capital lease obligations incurred	156	270
Accounts Payable [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Expenses capitalized	3,135	1,079
Accrued Liabilities [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Expenses capitalized	$1,983	$621

Goodwill_and_Acquired_Intangib2

Goodwill and Acquired Intangible Assets (Schedule of Goodwill) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Nov. 29, 2014	Nov. 30, 2013
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Goodwill, beginning of period	$241,299	$241,924
Acquisitions	269,313	0
Currency translation adjustments	-3,440	-625
Goodwill, end of period	507,172	241,299
Engine Mobile Filtration [Member]
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Goodwill, beginning of period	21,868	21,593
Acquisitions	194,989	0
Currency translation adjustments	-743	275
Goodwill, end of period	216,114	21,868
Industrial Environmental Filtration [Member]
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Goodwill, beginning of period	219,431	220,331
Acquisitions	74,324	0
Currency translation adjustments	-2,697	-900
Goodwill, end of period	291,058	219,431
Packaging [Member]
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Goodwill, beginning of period	0	0
Acquisitions	0	0
Currency translation adjustments	0	0
Goodwill, end of period	$0	$0

Goodwill_and_Acquired_Intangib3

Goodwill and Acquired Intangible Assets (Acquired Intangible Assets) (Details) (USD $)	Nov. 29, 2014	Nov. 30, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Indefinite and Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Trademarks - indefinite lived	$76,933	$42,661
Intangible asset, net - finite lived	270,645	47,220
Acquired intangible assets, less accumulated amortization	347,578	89,881
Trademarks [Member]
Indefinite and Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Trademarks - finite lived, gross	782	795
Accumulated amortization - finite lived intangible asset	-461	-433
Intangible asset, net - finite lived	321	362
Customer relationships [Member]
Indefinite and Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Trademarks - finite lived, gross	261,292	49,553
Accumulated amortization - finite lived intangible asset	-37,394	-22,031
Intangible asset, net - finite lived	223,898	27,522
Other Acquired Intangibles [Member]
Indefinite and Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Trademarks - finite lived, gross	72,201	40,137
Accumulated amortization - finite lived intangible asset	-25,775	-20,801
Intangible asset, net - finite lived	46,426	19,336
Engine Mobile Filtration [Member]
Indefinite and Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Trademarks - indefinite lived	783	603
Intangible asset, net - finite lived	141,976	2,642
Acquired intangible assets, less accumulated amortization	142,759	3,245
Engine Mobile Filtration [Member] | Trademarks [Member]
Indefinite and Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Trademarks - finite lived, gross	294	307
Accumulated amortization - finite lived intangible asset	-119	-104
Intangible asset, net - finite lived	175	203
Engine Mobile Filtration [Member] | Customer relationships [Member]
Indefinite and Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Trademarks - finite lived, gross	139,551	4,309
Accumulated amortization - finite lived intangible asset	-8,109	-1,870
Intangible asset, net - finite lived	131,442	2,439
Engine Mobile Filtration [Member] | Other Acquired Intangibles [Member]
Indefinite and Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Trademarks - finite lived, gross	11,243	243
Accumulated amortization - finite lived intangible asset	-884	-243
Intangible asset, net - finite lived	10,359	0
Industrial Environmental Filtration [Member]
Indefinite and Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Trademarks - indefinite lived	76,150	42,058
Intangible asset, net - finite lived	128,669	44,578
Acquired intangible assets, less accumulated amortization	204,819	86,636
Industrial Environmental Filtration [Member] | Trademarks [Member]
Indefinite and Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Trademarks - finite lived, gross	488	488
Accumulated amortization - finite lived intangible asset	-342	-329
Intangible asset, net - finite lived	146	159
Industrial Environmental Filtration [Member] | Customer relationships [Member]
Indefinite and Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Trademarks - finite lived, gross	121,741	45,244
Accumulated amortization - finite lived intangible asset	-29,285	-20,161
Intangible asset, net - finite lived	92,456	25,083
Industrial Environmental Filtration [Member] | Other Acquired Intangibles [Member]
Indefinite and Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Trademarks - finite lived, gross	60,958	39,894
Accumulated amortization - finite lived intangible asset	-24,891	-20,558
Intangible asset, net - finite lived	36,067	19,336
Packaging [Member]
Indefinite and Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Trademarks - indefinite lived	0	0
Intangible asset, net - finite lived	0	0
Acquired intangible assets, less accumulated amortization	0	0
Packaging [Member] | Trademarks [Member]
Indefinite and Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Trademarks - finite lived, gross	0	0
Accumulated amortization - finite lived intangible asset	0	0
Intangible asset, net - finite lived	0	0
Packaging [Member] | Customer relationships [Member]
Indefinite and Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Trademarks - finite lived, gross	0	0
Accumulated amortization - finite lived intangible asset	0	0
Intangible asset, net - finite lived	0	0
Packaging [Member] | Other Acquired Intangibles [Member]
Indefinite and Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Trademarks - finite lived, gross	0	0
Accumulated amortization - finite lived intangible asset	0	0
Intangible asset, net - finite lived	$0	$0

Goodwill_and_Acquired_Intangib4

Goodwill and Acquired Intangible Assets (Amortization Expense) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Nov. 29, 2014	Nov. 30, 2013	Dec. 01, 2012
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Amortization	$20,362	$5,904	$5,890

Goodwill_and_Acquired_Intangib5

Goodwill and Acquired Intangible Assets (Estimated Amortization Expense) (Details) (USD $)	Nov. 29, 2014
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Estimated amortization expense for the next five years:
2015	$24,400
2016	24,269
2017	24,031
2018	23,368
2019	$23,221

Fair_Value_Measurements_Fair_V

Fair Value Measurements (Fair Value Measurements) (Details) (USD $)	0 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 29, 2010	Nov. 29, 2014	Nov. 30, 2013
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Restricted trust, included in Other noncurrent assets		$893	$1,024
Mutual fund investments - equities [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Restricted trust, included in Other noncurrent assets		437	593
Mutual fund investments - bonds [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Restricted trust, included in Other noncurrent assets		442	400
Cash and equivalents [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Restricted trust, included in Other noncurrent assets		14	31
Level 1 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Restricted trust, included in Other noncurrent assets		893	1,024
Level 1 [Member] | Mutual fund investments - equities [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Restricted trust, included in Other noncurrent assets		437	593
Level 1 [Member] | Mutual fund investments - bonds [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Restricted trust, included in Other noncurrent assets		442	400
Level 1 [Member] | Cash and equivalents [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Restricted trust, included in Other noncurrent assets		14	31
Level 2 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Restricted trust, included in Other noncurrent assets		0	0
Level 2 [Member] | Mutual fund investments - equities [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Restricted trust, included in Other noncurrent assets		0	0
Level 2 [Member] | Mutual fund investments - bonds [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Restricted trust, included in Other noncurrent assets		0	0
Level 2 [Member] | Cash and equivalents [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Restricted trust, included in Other noncurrent assets		0	0
Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Restricted trust, included in Other noncurrent assets		0	0
Level 3 [Member] | Mutual fund investments - equities [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Restricted trust, included in Other noncurrent assets		0	0
Level 3 [Member] | Mutual fund investments - bonds [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Restricted trust, included in Other noncurrent assets		0	0
Level 3 [Member] | Cash and equivalents [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Restricted trust, included in Other noncurrent assets		0	0
TransWeb [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Foreign exchange contracts, included in Prepaid expenses and other current assets		0	0
Fair value of earn-out payment	1,018
Prepaid Expenses and Other Current Assets [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Foreign exchange contracts, included in Prepaid expenses and other current assets		362
Prepaid Expenses and Other Current Assets [Member] | Level 1 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Foreign exchange contracts, included in Prepaid expenses and other current assets		0
Prepaid Expenses and Other Current Assets [Member] | Level 2 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Foreign exchange contracts, included in Prepaid expenses and other current assets		362
Prepaid Expenses and Other Current Assets [Member] | Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Foreign exchange contracts, included in Prepaid expenses and other current assets		0
Accrued Liabilities [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Foreign exchange contracts, included in Prepaid expenses and other current assets		367
Accrued Liabilities [Member] | Level 2 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Foreign exchange contracts, included in Prepaid expenses and other current assets		$367

Fair_Value_Measurements_Fair_V1

Fair Value Measurements (Fair Values of Financial Instruments) (Details) (USD $)	Nov. 29, 2014	Nov. 30, 2013
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Long-term debt carrying value	$411,563,000	$166,636,000
Estimate of Fair Value, Fair Value Disclosure [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Long-term debt fair value estimate	$408,208,000	$166,288,000

Derivative_Instruments_and_Hed2

Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities (Fair Value in Balance Sheet) (Details) (USD $)	Nov. 29, 2014	Nov. 30, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Prepaid Expenses and Other Current Assets [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Derivative asset	$610	$0
Accrued Liabilities [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Derivative liability	367	0
Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] | Prepaid Expenses and Other Current Assets [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Derivative asset	248	0
Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] | Accrued Liabilities [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Derivative liability	245	0
Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] | Prepaid Expenses and Other Current Assets [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Derivative asset	362	0
Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] | Accrued Liabilities [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Derivative liability	122	0
Foreign Exchange Contracts [Member] | Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] | Prepaid Expenses and Other Current Assets [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Derivative asset	0	0
Foreign Exchange Contracts [Member] | Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] | Accrued Liabilities [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Derivative liability	245	0
Foreign Exchange Contracts [Member] | Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] | Prepaid Expenses and Other Current Assets [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Derivative asset	362	0
Foreign Exchange Contracts [Member] | Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] | Accrued Liabilities [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Derivative liability	122	0
Unrecognized Firm Sales Commitments [Member] | Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] | Prepaid Expenses and Other Current Assets [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Derivative asset	248	0
Unrecognized Firm Sales Commitments [Member] | Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] | Accrued Liabilities [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Derivative liability	$0	$0

Derivative_Instruments_and_Hed3

Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Nov. 29, 2014	Nov. 30, 2013
Foreign Exchange Contracts [Member] | Fair Value Hedging [Member]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Notional amount	$6,013
Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] | Fair Value Hedging [Member]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Gain (loss) on derivative	2	0
Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] | Foreign Exchange Contracts [Member] | Selling, General and Administrative Expenses [Member] | Fair Value Hedging [Member]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Gain (loss) on derivative	-250	0
Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] | Unrecognized Firm Sales Commitments [Member] | Selling, General and Administrative Expenses [Member] | Fair Value Hedging [Member]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Gain (loss) on derivative	252	0
Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] | Net Investment Hedging [Member]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Gain (loss) on derivative	2,286	0
Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] | Foreign Exchange Contracts [Member]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Notional amount	87,440	4,026
Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] | Foreign Exchange Contracts [Member] | Fair Value Hedging [Member]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Notional amount	97,479
Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] | Foreign Exchange Contracts [Member] | Selling, General and Administrative Expenses [Member] | Net Investment Hedging [Member]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Gain (loss) on derivative	-135	0
Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] | Foreign Exchange Contracts [Member] | Other Income (Expense) [Member] | Net Investment Hedging [Member]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Gain (loss) on derivative	$2,421	$0

Accrued_Liabilities_Schedule_o

Accrued Liabilities (Schedule of Accrued Liabilities) (Details) (USD $)	Nov. 29, 2014	Nov. 30, 2013	Dec. 01, 2012	Dec. 03, 2011
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Payables and Accruals [Abstract]
Accrued salaries, wages and commissions	$29,621	$14,908
Pension and postretirement healthcare benefits liabilities	279	278
Compensated absences	9,967	8,600
Accrued insurance liabilities	11,358	7,599
Warranties	9,405	1,599	1,533	2,580
Customer deposits	23,045	16,081
Other accrued liabilities	36,361	29,309
Accrued liabilities	$120,036	$78,374

Accrued_Liabilities_Warranty_A

Accrued Liabilities (Warranty Accrual) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Nov. 29, 2014	Nov. 30, 2013	Dec. 01, 2012
Movement in Standard and Extended Product Warranty, Increase (Decrease) [Roll Forward]
Warranty accrual at beginning of period	$1,599	$1,533	$2,580
Accruals for warranties issued during the period	2,187	844	514
Adjustments related to business acquisitions	10,946	0	32
Adjustments related to pre-existing warranties	818	-290	-691
Settlements made during the period	-5,872	-500	-850
Other adjustments, including currency translation	-273	12	-52
Warranty accrual at end of period	$9,405	$1,599	$1,533

LongTerm_Debt_Schedule_of_Long

Long-Term Debt (Schedule of Long-Term Debt) (Details) (USD $)	Nov. 29, 2014	Nov. 30, 2013	Nov. 22, 2013
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term debt	$411,563,000	$166,636,000
Current portion of long-term debt	233,000	50,223,000
Long-term debt, less current portion	411,330,000	116,413,000
Industrial Revenue Bonds [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term debt	15,820,000	15,820,000
Weighted average interest rate	0.22%	0.23%
Other long-term debt [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term debt	743,000	816,000
Revolving Credit Facility [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term debt	0	50,000,000
Term Loan [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term debt	$395,000,000	$100,000,000	$100,000,000

LongTerm_Debt_Narrative_Detail

Long-Term Debt (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Nov. 29, 2014	Nov. 30, 2013	Nov. 22, 2013	Apr. 05, 2012	1-May-14
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Long-term debt	411,563,000	$166,636,000
Letters of credit outstanding, amount	33,359,000	28,541,000
Term Loan [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Long-term debt	395,000,000	100,000,000	100,000,000
Weighted average interest rate	1.05%
Revolving Credit Facility [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Long-term debt	0	50,000,000
Remaining borrowing capacity	133,988,000
Credit Facility 2012 [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Line of credit, term	5 years
Maximum borrowing capacity				150,000,000
Credit Facility 2012 [Member] | Credit Facility - Swing Line [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Maximum borrowing capacity				10,000,000
Credit Facility 2012 [Member] | Credit Facility - Accordion [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Maximum borrowing capacity				100,000,000
Credit Facility 2012 [Member] | Letter of Credit Sub-Facility [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Sub-facility letters of credit maximum capacity	50,000,000
Letters of credit outstanding, amount	16,012,000	16,012,000
Credit Facility 2014 [Member] | Term Loan [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Maximum borrowing capacity					315,000,000
Bonds [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Long-term debt	15,820,000	15,820,000
Bonds [Member] | Campbellsville-Taylor County Industrial Development Authority (Kentucky) [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Long-term debt	7,410,000	7,410,000
Debt instrument, maturity date	1-May-31
Bonds [Member] | South Dakota Economic Development Finance Authority [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Long-term debt	8,410,000	$8,410,000
Debt instrument, maturity date	1-Feb-16

LongTerm_Debt_Maturities_of_Lo

Long-Term Debt (Maturities of Long-term Debt) (Details) (USD $)	Nov. 29, 2014	Nov. 30, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
2015	$233
2016	8,659
2017	395,127
2018	42
2019	7
Thereafter	7,495
Long-term debt	$411,563	$166,636

Leases_Details

Leases (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Nov. 29, 2014	Nov. 30, 2013	Dec. 01, 2012
Rent expense for the years ended:
Rent expense	$20,251	$16,124	$16,699
Future minimum rentals under noncancelable leases:
2015	12,853
2016	9,110
2017	5,902
2018	3,368
2019	2,379
Thereafter	$6,511

Pension_and_Other_Postretireme2

Pension and Other Postretirement Plans (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Nov. 29, 2014	Nov. 30, 2013	Dec. 01, 2012	Jan. 01, 2007
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Restricted trust, included in Other noncurrent assets	$893	$1,024
Qualified U.S. Pension Plans [Member] | Voluntary Contribution [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Voluntary contributions	0	1,493	15,793
United States Pension Plans of US Entity, Defined Benefit [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Estimated employer contributions in next fiscal year	0
Aggregate projected benefit obligation	202,622
Aggregate accumulated benefit obligation	197,278
Aggregate fair value of plan assets	172,280
U.S. Combined Nonqualified Plans [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Estimated employer contributions in next fiscal year	221
Aggregate projected benefit obligation	2,358
Aggregate accumulated benefit obligation	2,198
Next fiscal year assumptions for calculating net periodic benefit cost, discount rate	3.00%
Foreign Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Estimated employer contributions in next fiscal year	394
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Estimated employer contributions in next fiscal year	58
Defined benefit plan, benefit obligation	397	356	442
Next fiscal year assumptions for calculating net periodic benefit cost, discount rate	3.25%
Unrecognized net prior service credit	-473	-595		1,708
Unfunded Pension Benefit Obligation [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined benefit plan, benefit obligation	2,358	2,012
Pension Plan [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined benefit plan, benefit obligation	204,982	176,099	217,987
Unrecognized net prior service credit	-2	-12
Pension Plan [Member] | Qualified Pension Plans [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Next fiscal year assumptions for calculating net periodic benefit cost, long term return on plat assets	7.00%
Next fiscal year assumptions for calculating net periodic benefit cost, discount rate	3.75%
Defined benefit plan effect on next fiscal year net periodic benefit cost from changes in assumptions	534
Pension Plan [Member] | Supplemental Employee Retirement Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined benefit plan effect on next fiscal year net periodic benefit cost from changes in assumptions	$45
Equity Securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Target plan asset allocations	40.00%
Debt Securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Target plan asset allocations	60.00%

Pension_and_Other_Postretireme3

Pension and Other Postretirement Plans (Change in Benefit Obligation) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Nov. 29, 2014	Nov. 30, 2013	Dec. 01, 2012
Pension Plan [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Benefit Obligation [Roll Forward]
Benefit obligation at beginning of year	$176,099	$217,987
Currency translation	-357	190
Service cost	1,990	2,485	2,126
Interest cost	7,704	6,934	7,715
Plan participants' contributions	22	39
Actuarial (gains) losses	27,232	-22,472
Benefits paid	-7,708	-29,064
Retiree contributions	0	0
Benefit obligation at end of year	204,982	176,099	217,987
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Benefit Obligation [Roll Forward]
Benefit obligation at beginning of year	356	442
Currency translation	0	0
Service cost	0	0
Interest cost	10	9	17
Plan participants' contributions	0	0
Actuarial (gains) losses	17	-73
Benefits paid	-197	-251
Retiree contributions	211	229
Benefit obligation at end of year	$397	$356	$442

Pension_and_Other_Postretireme4

Pension and Other Postretirement Plans (Change in Plan Assets) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Nov. 29, 2014	Nov. 30, 2013
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	$172,280	$156,384
Pension Plan [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	156,384	146,307
Currency translation	-348	174
Actual return on plan assets	23,396	14,305
Employer contributions	534	24,623
Plan participants' contributions	22	39
Benefits paid	-7,708	-29,064
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	172,280	156,384
Funded status	-32,702	-19,715
Accumulated benefit obligation at end of year	199,476	170,433
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	0	0
Currency translation	0	0
Actual return on plan assets	0	0
Employer contributions	197	251
Plan participants' contributions	0	0
Benefits paid	-197	-251
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	0	0
Funded status	($397)	($356)
Qualified Pension Plans [Member] | Pension Plan [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Discount rate	3.75%	4.50%
Rate of compensation increase	4.00%	4.00%
Qualified Pension Plans [Member] | Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Discount rate	3.25%	3.00%
U.S. Combined Nonqualified Plans [Member] | Pension Plan [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Discount rate	3.00%	3.25%
Rate of compensation increase	4.00%	4.00%
Change in Plan Obligation and Assets [Member] | Pension Plan [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Measurement date	11/30/14	11/30/13
Change in Plan Obligation and Assets [Member] | Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Measurement date	11/30/14	11/30/13

Pension_and_Other_Postretireme5

Pension and Other Postretirement Plans (Amounts Recognized in Balance Sheet and AOCI) (Details) (USD $)	Nov. 29, 2014	Nov. 30, 2013	Jan. 01, 2007
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Amounts recognized in the Consolidated Balance Sheets as of November 30
Long-term pension and postretirement healthcare benefits liabilities	($33,266)	($19,792)
Pension Plan [Member]
Amounts recognized in the Consolidated Balance Sheets as of November 30
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	-221	-216
Long-term pension and postretirement healthcare benefits liabilities	-32,481	-19,499
Funded status	-32,702	-19,715
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, pre-tax	61,096	48,902
Amounts recognized in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss, as of November 30
Unrecognized net actuarial loss (gain)	61,098	48,914
Unrecognized net prior service credit	-2	-12
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, pre-tax	61,096	48,902
Deferred taxes	-22,535	-17,979
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, after-tax	38,561	30,923
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]
Amounts recognized in the Consolidated Balance Sheets as of November 30
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	-59	-63
Long-term pension and postretirement healthcare benefits liabilities	-338	-293
Funded status	-397	-356
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, pre-tax	-1,346	-1,632
Amounts recognized in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss, as of November 30
Unrecognized net actuarial loss (gain)	-873	-1,037
Unrecognized net prior service credit	-473	-595	1,708
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, pre-tax	-1,346	-1,632
Deferred taxes	475	587
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, after-tax	($871)	($1,045)

Pension_and_Other_Postretireme6

Pension and Other Postretirement Plans (Amounts Affecting Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Nov. 29, 2014	Nov. 30, 2013	Dec. 01, 2012
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Line Items]
Total	$7,789	($21,029)	$6,234
Pension Plan [Member]
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Line Items]
Amortization of prior service (cost) credit, net of tax of $(5), $(6) and $(43), $(44), respectively	5	3
Amortization of actuarial (losses) gains, net of tax of $1,063, $3,060 and $(52), $(54), respectively	-1,821	-5,498
Current year actuarial losses (gains), net of tax of $(5,559), $9,304 and $(6), $26, respectively	9,509	-16,637
Effect of change in deferred tax rate	-78	982
Total	7,615	-21,150
Defined Benefit Plan, Tax Amounts
Amortization of prior service (cost) credit, tax amount	-5	-6
Amortization of actuarial (losses) gains, tax amount	1,063	3,060
Current year actuarial losses (gains), tax amount	-5,559	9,304
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Line Items]
Amortization of prior service (cost) credit, net of tax of $(5), $(6) and $(43), $(44), respectively	79	79
Amortization of actuarial (losses) gains, net of tax of $1,063, $3,060 and $(52), $(54), respectively	95	95
Current year actuarial losses (gains), net of tax of $(5,559), $9,304 and $(6), $26, respectively	11	-46
Effect of change in deferred tax rate	-11	-7
Total	174	121
Defined Benefit Plan, Tax Amounts
Amortization of prior service (cost) credit, tax amount	-43	-44
Amortization of actuarial (losses) gains, tax amount	-52	-54
Current year actuarial losses (gains), tax amount	($6)	$26

Pension_and_Other_Postretireme7

Pension and Other Postretirement Plans (Actual Plan Asset Allocations) (Details)	Nov. 29, 2014	Nov. 30, 2013
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Line Items]
Actual plan asset allocations	100.00%	100.00%
Equity Securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Line Items]
Actual plan asset allocations	39.90%	51.00%
Debt Securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Line Items]
Actual plan asset allocations	59.50%	48.70%
Real estate funds [Member]
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Line Items]
Actual plan asset allocations	0.00%	0.00%
Cash and equivalents [Member]
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Line Items]
Actual plan asset allocations	0.60%	0.30%

Pension_and_Other_Postretireme8

Pension and Other Postretirement Plans (Fair Value of Pension Plans Assets) (Details) (USD $)	Nov. 29, 2014	Nov. 30, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Total	$171,991	$156,384
Other items to reconcile to fair value of plan assets	289	0
Fair value of plan assets	172,280	156,384
Level 1 [Member]
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair value of plan assets	171,991	156,384
Level 2 [Member]
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair value of plan assets	0	0
Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair value of plan assets	0	0
U.S. equity securities funds [Member]
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair value of plan assets	47,181	55,129
U.S. equity securities funds [Member] | Level 1 [Member]
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair value of plan assets	47,181	55,129
U.S. equity securities funds [Member] | Level 2 [Member]
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair value of plan assets	0	0
U.S. equity securities funds [Member] | Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair value of plan assets	0	0
Non-U.S. equity securities funds [Member]
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair value of plan assets	21,546	24,587
Non-U.S. equity securities funds [Member] | Level 1 [Member]
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair value of plan assets	21,546	24,587
Non-U.S. equity securities funds [Member] | Level 2 [Member]
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair value of plan assets	0	0
Non-U.S. equity securities funds [Member] | Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair value of plan assets	0	0
Fixed income securities funds [Member]
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair value of plan assets	102,561	76,121
Fixed income securities funds [Member] | Level 1 [Member]
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair value of plan assets	102,561	76,121
Fixed income securities funds [Member] | Level 2 [Member]
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair value of plan assets	0	0
Fixed income securities funds [Member] | Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair value of plan assets	0	0
Cash and equivalents [Member]
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair value of plan assets	703	547
Cash and equivalents [Member] | Level 1 [Member]
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair value of plan assets	703	547
Cash and equivalents [Member] | Level 2 [Member]
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair value of plan assets	0	0
Cash and equivalents [Member] | Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair value of plan assets	$0	$0

Pension_and_Other_Postretireme9

Pension and Other Postretirement Plans (Components of Net Periodic Benefit Cost) (Details) (Pension Plan [Member], USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Nov. 29, 2014	Nov. 30, 2013	Dec. 01, 2012
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Line Items]
Service cost	$1,990	$2,485	$2,126
Interest cost	7,704	6,934	7,715
Expected return on plan assets	-11,306	-10,795	-9,181
Settlement costs	0	3,087	0
Prior service cost	-10	-9	-10
Net actuarial loss	2,884	5,471	8,323
Net periodic benefit income	$1,262	$7,173	$8,973
Assumptions:
Expected return on plan assets	7.50%	7.50%	7.50%
Qualified Pension Plans [Member]
Assumptions:
Discount rate	4.50%	3.50%	4.50%
Rate of compensation increase	4.00%	4.00%	4.00%
U.S. Combined Nonqualified Plans [Member]
Assumptions:
Discount rate	3.25%	3.25%	1.75%
Rate of compensation increase	4.00%	4.00%	4.00%
Net Periodic Benefit Expense (Income) [Member] | Qualified Pension Plans [Member]
Assumptions:
Measurement date	11/30/13	11/30/12	11/30/11
Net Periodic Benefit Expense (Income) [Member] | U.S. Combined Nonqualified Plans [Member]
Assumptions:
Measurement date	11/30/13	11/30/13	11/30/12

Recovered_Sheet1

Pension and Other Postretirement Plans (Components of Net Periodic Benefit Income) (Details) (Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member], USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Nov. 29, 2014	Nov. 30, 2013	Dec. 01, 2012
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Line Items]
Interest cost	$10	$9	$17
Prior service cost	-122	-122	-122
Net actuarial gain	-147	-149	-121
Net periodic benefit income	($259)	($262)	($226)
Discount rate	3.00%	2.25%	3.50%
Net Periodic Benefit Expense (Income) [Member]
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Line Items]
Measurement date	11/30/13	11/30/12	11/30/11

Recovered_Sheet2

Pension and Other Postretirement Plans (Amortized from AOCI) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Nov. 29, 2014
Pension Plan [Member]
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Line Items]
Prior service credit	($3)
Actuarial loss (gain)	3,869
Total	3,866
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Line Items]
Prior service credit	-123
Actuarial loss (gain)	-87
Total	($210)

Recovered_Sheet3

Pension and Other Postretirement Plans (Estimated Future Benefit Payments and Cost Recognized) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Nov. 29, 2014	Nov. 30, 2013	Dec. 01, 2012
Estimated Future Benefit Payments
Defined contribution plan, cost recognized	$7,945	$4,482	$4,377
Pension Plan [Member]
Estimated Future Benefit Payments
2015	8,427
2016	8,754
2017	9,229
2018	9,703
2019	10,184
2020-2024	59,950
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]
Estimated Future Benefit Payments
2015	58
2016	49
2017	41
2018	37
2019	34
2020-2024	$124

Income_Taxes_Unrecognized_Tax_

Income Taxes (Unrecognized Tax Benefits) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Nov. 29, 2014	Nov. 30, 2013	Dec. 01, 2012
Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Excluding Amounts Pertaining to Examined Tax Returns [Roll Forward]
Unrecognized tax benefits at December 1,	$2,155	$2,209	$3,015
Additions for current period tax positions	465	668	382
Reductions for current period tax positions	0	0	-37
Additions for prior period tax positions	40	0	0
Reductions for prior period tax positions	0	-40	-631
Reductions for lapse of statute of limitations/settlements	-240	-431	-460
Changes in interest and penalties	67	-251	-60
Unrecognized tax benefits at November 30,	$2,487	$2,155	$2,209

Income_Taxes_Narrative_Details

Income Taxes (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Nov. 29, 2014	Nov. 30, 2013	Dec. 01, 2012	1-May-14
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Unrecognized tax benefits that would impact the effective tax rate if recognized	$1,555	$1,354
Accrued for the payment of interest and penalties	273	221
Significant change in unrecognized tax benefits is reasonably possible, amount of unrecorded benefit	253
Operating loss carryforwards, limitations on use	20,000
Tax credit carryforward	33,833
Operating loss carryforwards, subject to expiration	1,319
Operating loss carryforwards, not subject to expiration	4,748
Valuation allowance, deferred tax asset, change in amount	166	-809
Repatriated foreign earnings	17	54	54
Undistributed foreign earnings	203,656
Stanadyne [Member]
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
General business tax carryforward				1,700
Federal [Member]
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Operating loss carryforwards	$45,500

Income_Taxes_Provision_for_Inc

Income Taxes (Provision for Income Taxes) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Nov. 29, 2014	Nov. 30, 2013	Dec. 01, 2012
Current:
Federal	$56,764	$34,414	$37,673
State	4,760	2,918	2,484
Foreign	10,112	9,096	10,228
Deferred:
Federal	-4,102	8,676	8,763
State	-359	-165	805
Foreign	205	1,011	-296
Income Tax Expense	$67,380	$55,950	$59,657

Income_Taxes_Earnings_Before_I

Income Taxes (Earnings Before Income Taxes and Noncontrolling Interests) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Nov. 29, 2014	Nov. 30, 2013	Dec. 01, 2012
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Domestic income	$166,101	$141,224	$145,433
Foreign income	45,462	33,076	37,564
Earnings before income taxes	$211,563	$174,300	$182,997

Income_Taxes_Effective_Income_

Income Taxes (Effective Income Tax Rate) (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Nov. 29, 2014	Nov. 30, 2013	Dec. 01, 2012
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Statutory U.S. tax rates	35.00%	35.00%	35.00%
State income taxes, net of federal benefit	1.30%	1.00%	1.40%
Tax credits	-0.20%	-0.60%	-0.10%
Foreign taxes at different rates, net of credits	-2.30%	-1.60%	-2.00%
Domestic production activities deduction	-2.70%	-2.20%	-2.60%
Other, net	0.70%	0.50%	0.90%
Effective Income Tax Rate, Continuing Operations	31.80%	32.10%	32.60%

Income_Taxes_Deferred_Tax_Asse

Income Taxes (Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities) (Details) (USD $)	Nov. 29, 2014	Nov. 30, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Deferred tax assets:
Deferred compensation	$9,074	$7,945
Loss carryforward and tax credit items	19,620	2,529
Accounts receivable	6,538	5,973
Inventories	5,484	5,000
Pensions	10,019	4,781
Accrued liabilities and other	6,999	1,219
Valuation allowance	-1,268	-1,102
Total deferred tax assets, net	56,466	26,345
Deferred tax liabilities:
Percentage of completion	-740	-539
Plant assets	-24,818	-24,182
Goodwill and acquired intangible assets	-97,179	-40,380
Other deferred tax liabilities	-230	-345
Total deferred tax liabilities	-122,967	-65,446
Deferred tax liability, net	($66,501)	($39,101)

Contingencies_Details

Contingencies (Details) (TransWeb [Member], USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Nov. 29, 2014
TransWeb [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Litigation settlement	$26,147

Incentive_Plans_and_StockBased2

Incentive Plans and Stock-Based Compensation (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	0 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 25, 2014	Nov. 29, 2014	Nov. 30, 2013	Dec. 01, 2012	Mar. 25, 2014
Stock Options
Weighted-average period, over which the Company expects to recognize compensation cost related to share-based arrangements (in years)		4 years
Stock Options [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Shares granted in performance awards to officers, directors and key employees	6,600,000				6,600,000
Number of years which shares can be granted under the Plan	10 years
Incentive plan end date	1-Apr-24
Stock Options
Annual employee vesting percentage		25.00%
Award vesting period (in years)		4 years
Expiration period and term of equity award (in years)		10 years
Granted (in options)		450,700	387,500	512,850
Weighted average exercise price - granted (in dollars per share)		$61.49	$45.25	$49.84
Unrecognized compensation cost related to share-based awards which the Company expects to recognize		$5,019
Weighted-average period, over which the Company expects to recognize compensation cost related to share-based arrangements (in years)		2 years 15 days
Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member]
Stock Options
Award vesting period (in years)		4 years
Unrecognized compensation cost related to share-based awards which the Company expects to recognize		$1,235
Weighted-average period, over which the Company expects to recognize compensation cost related to share-based arrangements (in years)		2 years 4 months 26 days
Restricted Stock Unit Awards
Restricted stock unit awards - shares vested and deferred		19,457	14,760
Granted (in shares)		24,808	23,624	29,839
Weighted average grant date fair value - granted (in dollars per share)		$61.42	$45.19	$49.91
Employee Stock [Member]
Restricted Stock Unit Awards
Employee stock purchase plan, discount		5.00%

Incentive_Plans_and_StockBased3

Incentive Plans and Stock-Based Compensation (Schedule of Stock Options and Restricted Stock Units) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Nov. 29, 2014	Nov. 30, 2013	Dec. 01, 2012
Stock Options [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Pre-tax compensation expense	$5,025	$3,212	$4,997
Deferred tax benefits	-1,834	-1,153	-1,836
Excess tax benefits associated with tax deductions over the amount of compensation expense recognized in the consolidated financial statements	2,668	7,231	2,007
Fair value of options granted	5,186	3,868	6,407
Total intrinsic value of options exercised	9,696	29,384	8,793
Cash received upon exercise of options	10,738	33,778	5,170
Addition to capital in excess of par value due to exercise of stock options	13,084	38,903	5,440
Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Pre-tax compensation expense	1,373	888	1,229
Deferred tax benefits	-501	-319	-451
Excess tax benefits associated with tax deductions over the amount of compensation expense recognized in the consolidated financial statements	101	1,280	-88
Fair value of restricted stock unit awards on date of grant	1,524	1,068	1,489
Fair value of restricted stock unit awards vested	$893	$621	$2,359

Incentive_Plans_and_StockBased4

Incentive Plans and Stock-Based Compensation (Summary of Stock Option Activity) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Nov. 29, 2014	Nov. 30, 2013	Dec. 01, 2012
Stock Option Activity in Shares
Outstanding at end of year	2,310,720
Exercisable at end of year	1,409,359
Weighted Average Exercise Prices
Weighted Average Exercise Price - Outstanding End of Period (in dollars per share)	$45.71
Weighted Average Exercise Price - Exercisable (in dollars per share)	$40.70
Stock Options [Member]
Stock Option Activity in Shares
Outstanding at beginning of year	2,208,314	3,037,151	2,907,533
Granted	450,700	387,500	512,850
Exercised	-322,473	-1,191,752	-353,793
Surrendered	-25,821	-24,585	-29,439
Outstanding at end of year	2,310,720	2,208,314	3,037,151
Exercisable at end of year	1,409,359	1,413,100	2,035,267
Weighted Average Exercise Prices
Weighted Average Exercise Price - Outstanding Beginning of Year (in dollars per share)	$40.76	$36.09	$32.39
Weighted Average Exercise Price - Granted (in dollars per share)	$61.49	$45.25	$49.84
Weighted Average Exercise Price - Exercised (in dollars per share)	$33.30	$30.30	$25.28
Weighted Average Exercise Price - Surrendered (in dollars per share)	$52.47	$42.48	$40.17
Weighted Average Exercise Price - Outstanding End of Period (in dollars per share)	$45.71	$40.76	$36.09
Weighted Average Exercise Price - Exercisable (in dollars per share)	$40.70	$38.19	$32.54

Incentive_Plans_and_StockBased5

Incentive Plans and Stock-Based Compensation (Exercise Price) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Nov. 29, 2014
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]
Options Outstanding - Number (in shares)	2,310,720
Options Outstanding - Weighted Average Exercise Price (in dollars per share)	$45.71
Options Outstanding - Intrinsic Value	$46,629
Options Outstanding - Weighted Average Remaining Life (in years)	6 years 7 months 14 days
Options Exercisable - Number (in shares)	1,409,359
Options Exercisable - Weighted Average Exercise Price (in dollars per share)	$40.70
Options Exercisable - Intrinsic Value	35,499
Options Exercisable - Weighted Average Remaining Life (in years)	5 years 6 months 8 days
$25.31 - $28.79 [Member]
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]
Exercise price range, upper range limit	$25.31
Exercise price range, lower range limit	$28.79
Options Outstanding - Number (in shares)	66,100
Options Outstanding - Weighted Average Exercise Price (in dollars per share)	$26.59
Options Outstanding - Intrinsic Value	2,598
Options Outstanding - Weighted Average Remaining Life (in years)	2 years 7 months 16 days
Options Exercisable - Number (in shares)	66,100
Options Exercisable - Weighted Average Exercise Price (in dollars per share)	$26.59
Options Exercisable - Intrinsic Value	2,598
Options Exercisable - Weighted Average Remaining Life (in years)	2 years 7 months 16 days
$31.96 - $36.48 [Member]
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]
Exercise price range, upper range limit	$31.96
Exercise price range, lower range limit	$36.48
Options Outstanding - Number (in shares)	523,009
Options Outstanding - Weighted Average Exercise Price (in dollars per share)	$33.62
Options Outstanding - Intrinsic Value	16,876
Options Outstanding - Weighted Average Remaining Life (in years)	3 years 8 months 18 days
Options Exercisable - Number (in shares)	523,009
Options Exercisable - Weighted Average Exercise Price (in dollars per share)	$33.62
Options Exercisable - Intrinsic Value	16,876
Options Exercisable - Weighted Average Remaining Life (in years)	3 years 8 months 18 days
$42.86 - $49.91 [Member]
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]
Exercise price range, upper range limit	$42.86
Exercise price range, lower range limit	$49.91
Options Outstanding - Number (in shares)	1,279,161
Options Outstanding - Weighted Average Exercise Price (in dollars per share)	$46.20
Options Outstanding - Intrinsic Value	25,193
Options Outstanding - Weighted Average Remaining Life (in years)	7 years 2 months 3 days
Options Exercisable - Number (in shares)	808,125
Options Exercisable - Weighted Average Exercise Price (in dollars per share)	$46.13
Options Exercisable - Intrinsic Value	15,969
Options Exercisable - Weighted Average Remaining Life (in years)	6 years 10 months 14 days
$55.01 - $61.57 [Member]
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]
Exercise price range, upper range limit	$55.01
Exercise price range, lower range limit	$61.57
Options Outstanding - Number (in shares)	442,450
Options Outstanding - Weighted Average Exercise Price (in dollars per share)	$61.45
Options Outstanding - Intrinsic Value	1,962
Options Outstanding - Weighted Average Remaining Life (in years)	9 years 0 months 17 days
Options Exercisable - Number (in shares)	12,125
Options Exercisable - Weighted Average Exercise Price (in dollars per share)	$61.23
Options Exercisable - Intrinsic Value	$56
Options Exercisable - Weighted Average Remaining Life (in years)	9 years 0 months 8 days

Incentive_Plans_and_StockBased6

Incentive Plans and Stock-Based Compensation (Fair Value of Options Granted) (Details) (Stock Options [Member], USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Nov. 29, 2014	Nov. 30, 2013	Dec. 01, 2012
Stock Options [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Weighted average fair value per option at the date of grant for option granted (in dollars per share)	$11.51	$9.98	$12.49
Risk-free interest rate	1.55%	1.19%	1.38%
Expected dividend yield	1.10%	1.19%	0.96%
Expected volatility factor	21.38%	25.80%	26.52%
Expected option term in years	5 years	5 years 4 months 23 days	6 years 1 month 6 days

Incentive_Plans_and_StockBased7

Incentive Plans and Stock-Based Compensation (Summary of Restrcited Stock Unit Awards) (Details) (Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member], USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Nov. 29, 2014	Nov. 30, 2013	Dec. 01, 2012
Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested [Roll Forward]
Nonvested at beginning of year (in shares)	48,044	39,945	71,545
Granted (in shares)	24,808	23,624	29,839
Vested (in shares)	-20,156	-15,525	-60,320
Surrendered (in shares)	-1,684	0	-1,119
Nonvested at end of period (in shares)	51,012	48,044	39,945
Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value - Restricted Stock Unit Awards [Roll Forward]
Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value - Beginning of Year (in dollars per share)	$45.18	$43.16	$36.95
Weighted average grant date fair value - granted (in dollars per share)	$61.42	$45.19	$49.91
Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value - Vested (in dollars per share)	$44.29	$40.01	$39.11
Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value - Surrendered (in dollars per share)	$54.36	$0	$44.15
Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value - End of Year (in dollars per share)	$53.12	$45.18	$43.16

Incentive_Plans_and_StockBased8

Incentive Plans and Stock-Based Compensation (Directors' Restricted Stock Compensation) (Details) (Directors' Restricted Stock [Member], USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Nov. 29, 2014	Nov. 30, 2013	Dec. 01, 2012
Directors' Restricted Stock [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Pre-tax compensation expense	$880	$960	$200
Shares of Company common stock issued under the plans	15,400	18,256	4,055

Incentive_Plans_and_StockBased9

Incentive Plans and Stock-Based Compensation (Employee Stock Purchase Plan) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Nov. 29, 2014	Nov. 30, 2013	Dec. 01, 2012
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Company stock issued under the plan	$2,488	$2,963	$1,868
Employee Stock [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Company stock issued under the plan	$1,338	$1,269	$1,244

Earnings_Per_Share_and_Stock_R2

Earnings Per Share and Stock Repurchase Activity (Calculation of Earnings Per Share) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Nov. 29, 2014	Aug. 30, 2014	31-May-14	Mar. 01, 2014	Nov. 30, 2013	Aug. 31, 2013	Jun. 01, 2013	Mar. 02, 2013	Nov. 29, 2014	Nov. 30, 2013	Dec. 01, 2012
Earnings Per Share and Stock Repurchase Activity [Abstract]
Weighted average number of shares outstanding - Basic (in shares)									50,405,549	49,988,577	50,285,480
Dilutive effect of stock-based arrangements (in shares)									465,700	550,370	596,711
Weighted average number of shares outstanding - Diluted (in shares)									50,871,249	50,538,947	50,882,191
Net earnings attributable to CLARCOR Inc.	$43,508	$41,703	$34,552	$24,321	$32,856	$28,707	$33,051	$23,462	$144,084	$118,076	$122,986
Net earnings per common share attributable to CLARCOR Inc. - Basic (in dollars per share)	$0.87	$0.83	$0.68	$0.48	$0.65	$0.57	$0.66	$0.47	$2.86	$2.36	$2.45
Net earnings per common share attributable to CLARCOR Inc. - Diluted (in dollars per share)	$0.86	$0.82	$0.68	$0.48	$0.65	$0.57	$0.66	$0.47	$2.83	$2.34	$2.42

Calaulation_of_Stock_Repurchas

(Calaulation of Stock Repurchase Activity) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Nov. 29, 2014	Nov. 30, 2013	Dec. 01, 2012
Earnings Per Share and Stock Repurchase Activity [Abstract]
Number of antidilutive options with exercise prices greater than the average market price excluded from the computation of dilutive earnings per share	441,033	125,135	508,167
Common stock repurchased and retired pursuant to the Company's stock repurchase program	$32,822	$27,708	$37,320
Number of shares repurchased and retired pursuant to the Company's stock repurchase program	535,703	534,100	792,881

Earnings_Per_Share_and_Stock_R3

Earnings Per Share and Stock Repurchase Activity (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	0 Months Ended
	Jun. 25, 2013	Nov. 29, 2014	Jun. 25, 2013
Earnings Per Share and Stock Repurchase Activity [Abstract]
Stock repurchase program, period in force	3 years
Stock repurchase program, authorized amount			$250,000,000
Stock repurchase program, remaining authorized repurchase amount		$208,460,000

Segment_Information_Segment_Da

Segment Information (Segment Data) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Nov. 29, 2014	Aug. 30, 2014	31-May-14	Mar. 01, 2014	Nov. 30, 2013	Aug. 31, 2013	Jun. 01, 2013	Mar. 02, 2013	Nov. 29, 2014	Nov. 30, 2013	Dec. 01, 2012
									segments
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Number of segments									3
Net sales	$413,375	$400,152	$386,642	$312,685	$297,790	$289,126	$287,583	$256,271	$1,512,854	$1,130,770	$1,121,765
Operating profit									210,428	174,616	182,714
Other income (expense), net									1,135	-316	283
Earnings before income taxes									211,563	174,300	182,997
Assets	1,888,769				1,448,843				1,888,769	1,448,843	1,205,502
Additions to property, plant, and equipment									73,584	44,651	36,647
Depreciation and amortization									50,427	32,233	31,815
Engine Mobile Filtration [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales									603,805	507,024	503,607
Operating profit									122,365	106,345	111,653
Assets	781,204				397,545				781,204	397,545	372,011
Additions to property, plant, and equipment									46,496	19,809	24,062
Depreciation and amortization									18,170	10,488	9,327
Industrial Environmental Filtration [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales									833,100	549,746	541,364
Operating profit									83,351	61,996	64,766
Assets	1,022,996				715,759				1,022,996	715,759	706,610
Additions to property, plant, and equipment									20,215	21,467	9,264
Depreciation and amortization									28,789	18,093	18,692
Packaging [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales									75,949	74,000	76,794
Operating profit									4,712	6,275	6,295
Assets	41,817				41,030				41,817	41,030	36,350
Additions to property, plant, and equipment									1,989	2,467	3,250
Depreciation and amortization									2,438	2,859	3,090
Corporate [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Assets	42,752				294,509				42,752	294,509	90,531
Additions to property, plant, and equipment									4,884	908	71
Depreciation and amortization									$1,030	$793	$706

Segment_Information_Segment_In

Segment Information (Segment Information by Geographic Area) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Nov. 29, 2014	Aug. 30, 2014	31-May-14	Mar. 01, 2014	Nov. 30, 2013	Aug. 31, 2013	Jun. 01, 2013	Mar. 02, 2013	Nov. 29, 2014	Nov. 30, 2013	Dec. 01, 2012
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Net sales	$413,375	$400,152	$386,642	$312,685	$297,790	$289,126	$287,583	$256,271	$1,512,854	$1,130,770	$1,121,765
Property, plant and equipment, at cost, less accumulated depreciation	288,356				208,953				288,356	208,953	195,101
United States [Member]
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Net sales									1,027,028	778,952	779,811
Property, plant and equipment, at cost, less accumulated depreciation	238,413				183,166				238,413	183,166	173,018
Europe [Member]
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Net sales									165,446	96,255	102,144
Property, plant and equipment, at cost, less accumulated depreciation	24,783				12,499				24,783	12,499	3,619
Asia [Member]
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Net sales									146,859	103,030	98,880
Property, plant and equipment, at cost, less accumulated depreciation	11,466				2,702				11,466	2,702	8,013
Other International [Member]
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Net sales									173,521	152,533	140,930
Property, plant and equipment, at cost, less accumulated depreciation	$13,694				$10,586				$13,694	$10,586	$10,451

Selected_Quarterly_Financial_D2

Selected Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Nov. 29, 2014	Aug. 30, 2014	31-May-14	Mar. 01, 2014	Nov. 30, 2013	Aug. 31, 2013	Jun. 01, 2013	Mar. 02, 2013	Nov. 29, 2014	Nov. 30, 2013	Dec. 01, 2012
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Net sales	$413,375	$400,152	$386,642	$312,685	$297,790	$289,126	$287,583	$256,271	$1,512,854	$1,130,770	$1,121,765
Gross profit	139,753	135,325	125,370	96,587	98,609	91,900	98,214	81,486	497,035	370,209	380,332
Net earnings	43,531	41,765	34,546	24,341	32,896	28,773	33,153	23,528	144,183	118,350	123,340
Net earnings attributable to CLARCOR Inc.	$43,508	$41,703	$34,552	$24,321	$32,856	$28,707	$33,051	$23,462	$144,084	$118,076	$122,986
Net earnings per common share attributable to CLARCOR Inc. - Basic (in dollars per share)	$0.87	$0.83	$0.68	$0.48	$0.65	$0.57	$0.66	$0.47	$2.86	$2.36	$2.45
Net earnings per common share attributable to CLARCOR Inc. - Diluted (in dollars per share)	$0.86	$0.82	$0.68	$0.48	$0.65	$0.57	$0.66	$0.47	$2.83	$2.34	$2.42
Cash dividends paid per common share (in dollars per share)	$0.20	$0.17	$0.17	$0.17	$0.17	$0.14	$0.14	$0.14	$0.71	$0.57	$0.50

Subsequent_Event_Details

Subsequent Event (Details) (Subsequent Event [Member], Filter Resources, Inc. [Member], USD $)	0 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 17, 2014	Dec. 17, 2014
Subsequent Event [Member] | Filter Resources, Inc. [Member]
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Business acquisition, percentage of voting interests acquired	100.00%	100.00%
Payments to acquire businesses	$21,904

Schedule_of_Valuation_and_Qual

Schedule of Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure (Details 1) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Nov. 29, 2014		Nov. 30, 2013		Dec. 01, 2012
Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Roll Forward]
Balance at beginning of period	$9,183		$9,554		$9,795
Charged to costs and expenses	1,583		1,863		1,029
Charged to other accounts	802	[1]	-1,110	[1]	-96	[1]
Deductions	-757	[2]	-1,124	[2]	-1,174	[2]
Balance at end of period	$10,811		$9,183		$9,554
[1]	Due to business acquisitions, reclassifications and currency translation.
[2]	Bad debts written off during year, net of recoveries.