Nucor (NUE) 10-Q 10 Nov 21 2021 Q3 Quarterly report Financial data

Document and Entity Information

Document and Entity Information	9 Months Ended
	Oct. 02, 2021shares
Cover [Abstract]
Document Type	10-Q
Amendment Flag	false
Document Period End Date	Oct. 2, 2021
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2021
Document Fiscal Period Focus	Q3
Trading Symbol	NUE
Entity Registrant Name	NUCOR CORPORATION
Entity Central Index Key	0000073309
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--12-31
Entity Filer Category	Large Accelerated Filer
Entity Emerging Growth Company	false
Entity Small Business	false
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Entity Shell Company	false
Entity Interactive Data Current	Yes
Title of 12(b) Security	Common Stock, par value $0.40 per share
Security Exchange Name	NYSE
Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code	DE
Document Quarterly Report	true
Document Transition Report	false
Entity File Number	1-4119
Entity Tax Identification Number	13-1860817
Entity Address, Address Line One	1915 Rexford Road
Entity Address, City or Town	Charlotte
Entity Address, State or Province	NC
Entity Address, Postal Zip Code	28211
City Area Code	704
Local Phone Number	366-7000
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding	285,798,874

Condensed Consolidated Statemen

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Earnings - USD ($) shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Oct. 02, 2021	Oct. 03, 2020	Oct. 02, 2021	Oct. 03, 2020
Income Statement [Abstract]
Net sales	$ 10,313,223	$ 4,927,960	$ 26,119,527	$ 14,879,603
Costs, expenses and other:
Cost of products sold	6,906,950	4,425,765	18,617,314	13,370,181
Marketing, administrative and other expenses	526,345	165,513	1,204,539	460,922
Equity in (earnings) losses of unconsolidated affiliates	(32,464)	(479)	(65,106)	14,422
Losses on assets		6,604	50,970	299,450
Interest expense, net	43,285	40,139	118,709	116,856
Costs, expenses and other, total	7,444,116	4,637,542	19,926,426	14,261,831
Earnings before income taxes and noncontrolling interests	2,869,107	290,418	6,193,101	617,772
Provision for income taxes	645,842	67,788	1,410,863	207,610
Net earnings	2,223,265	222,630	4,782,238	410,162
Earnings attributable to noncontrolling interests	95,522	29,215	205,195	87,535
Net earnings attributable to Nucor stockholders	$ 2,127,743	$ 193,415	$ 4,577,043	$ 322,627
Net earnings per share:
Basic	$ 7.29	$ 0.63	$ 15.37	$ 1.06
Diluted	$ 7.28	$ 0.63	$ 15.34	$ 1.06
Average shares outstanding:
Basic	290,510	303,394	296,431	303,072
Diluted	291,152	303,441	296,928	303,099

Condensed Consolidated Statem_2

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended				9 Months Ended
	Oct. 02, 2021		Oct. 03, 2020		Oct. 02, 2021		Oct. 03, 2020
Statement Of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net earnings	$ 2,223,265		$ 222,630		$ 4,782,238		$ 410,162
Other comprehensive income:
Net unrealized income on hedging derivatives, net of income taxes of $6,100 and $2,000 for the third quarter of 2021 and 2020, respectively, and $9,100 and $1,400 for the first nine months of 2021 and 2020, respectively	19,057		6,387		28,260		4,888
Reclassification adjustment for settlement of hedging derivatives included in net income, net of income taxes of $(800) and $700 for the third quarter of 2021 and 2020, respectively, and $(700) and $2,300 for the first nine months of 2021 and 2020, respectively	(2,457)	[1]	2,113	[2]	(1,760)	[1]	6,712	[2]
Foreign currency translation gain (loss), net of income taxes of $0 for the third quarter and first nine months of 2021 and 2020	(28,772)		16,867		6,460		(24,103)
Net current-period other comprehensive income (loss)	(12,172)		25,367		32,960		(12,503)
Comprehensive income	2,211,093		247,997		4,815,198		397,659
Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests	95,522		29,215		205,195		87,535
Comprehensive income attributable to Nucor stockholders	$ 2,115,571		$ 218,782		$ 4,610,003		$ 310,124
[1]	Includes $(2,457) and $(1,760) of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) reclassifications into cost of products sold for net losses on commodity contracts in the third quarter and first nine months of 2021, respectively. The tax impact of those reclassifications was $(800) and $(700) in the third quarter and first nine months of 2021, respectively.
[2]	Includes $2,113 and $6,712 of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) reclassifications into cost of products sold for net losses on commodity contracts in the third quarter and first nine months of 2020, respectively. The tax impact of those reclassifications was $700 and $2,300 in the third quarter and first nine months of 2020, respectively.

Condensed Consolidated Statem_3

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Parenthetical) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Oct. 02, 2021	Oct. 03, 2020	Oct. 02, 2021	Oct. 03, 2020
Statement Of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net unrealized income on hedging derivatives, tax	$ 6,100	$ 2,000	$ 9,100	$ 1,400
Reclassification adjustment for settlement of hedging derivatives included in net income, tax effect	(800)	700	(700)	2,300
Foreign currency translation (loss) gain tax	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0

Condensed Consolidated Balance

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Oct. 02, 2021	Dec. 31, 2020
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 1,764,293	$ 2,639,671
Short-term investments	247,247	408,004
Accounts receivable, net	4,087,293	2,298,850
Inventories, net	5,678,715	3,569,089
Other current assets	346,277	573,048
Total current assets	12,123,825	9,488,662
Property, plant and equipment, net	7,777,277	6,899,110
Restricted cash and cash equivalents	281,345	115,258
Goodwill	2,787,992	2,229,672
Other intangible assets, net	1,171,292	668,021
Other assets	807,748	724,671
Total assets	24,949,479	20,125,394
Current liabilities:
Short-term debt	102,737	57,906
Current portion of long-term debt and finance lease obligations	615,130	10,885
Accounts payable	1,870,035	1,432,159
Salaries, wages and related accruals	1,323,365	462,727
Accrued expenses and other current liabilities	886,332	664,183
Total current liabilities	4,797,599	2,627,860
Long-term debt and finance lease obligations due after one year	4,949,945	5,271,789
Deferred credits and other liabilities	1,251,643	993,884
Total liabilities	10,999,187	8,893,533
Nucor stockholders' equity:
Common stock	152,061	152,061
Additional paid-in capital	2,131,514	2,121,288
Retained earnings	15,561,261	11,343,852
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of income taxes	(85,901)	(118,861)
Treasury stock	(4,336,415)	(2,709,675)
Total Nucor stockholders' equity	13,422,520	10,788,665
Noncontrolling interests	527,772	443,196
Total equity	13,950,292	11,231,861
Total liabilities and equity	$ 24,949,479	$ 20,125,394

Condensed Consolidated Statem_4

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows $ in Thousands	9 Months Ended
	Oct. 02, 2021USD ($)	Oct. 03, 2020USD ($)
Operating activities:
Net earnings	$ 4,782,238	$ 410,162
Adjustments:
Depreciation	546,619	525,688
Amortization	76,656	62,877
Stock-based compensation	97,652	56,122
Deferred income taxes	166,748	140,606
Distributions from affiliates	200	3,021
Equity in (earnings) losses of unconsolidated affiliates	(65,106)	14,422
Losses on assets	50,970	299,450
Changes in assets and liabilities (exclusive of acquisitions and dispositions):
Accounts receivable	(1,622,668)	37,547
Inventories	(1,976,738)	590,434
Accounts payable	343,014	15,366
Federal income taxes	262,195	18,848
Salaries, wages and related accruals	835,381	(69,235)
Other operating activities	123,202	100,283
Cash provided by operating activities	3,620,363	2,205,591
Investing activities:
Capital expenditures	(1,207,088)	(1,179,081)
Investment in and advances to affiliates	(193)	(16,542)
Disposition of plant and equipment	15,581	19,492
Acquisitions (net of cash acquired)	(1,346,608)	(20,368)
Purchase of investments	(394,141)	(401,986)
Proceeds from the sale of investments	554,898	301,249
Other investing activities	1,042	(33,536)
Cash used in investing activities	(2,376,509)	(1,330,772)
Financing activities:
Net change in short-term debt	44,831	1,334
Proceeds from long-term debt, net of discount	196,990	1,237,635
Repayment of long-term debt		(97,150)
Bond issuance related costs		(6,250)
Proceeds from exercise of stock options	143,874
Payment of tax withholdings on certain stock-based compensation	(71,494)	(17,691)
Distributions to noncontrolling interests	(120,619)	(106,193)
Cash dividends	(366,606)	(368,636)
Acquisition of treasury stock	(1,773,848)	(39,499)
Other financing activities	(7,993)	(6,983)
Cash (used in) provided by financing activities	(1,954,865)	596,567
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash	1,720	(7,790)
(Decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash and cash equivalents	(709,291)	1,463,596
Cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash and cash equivalents - beginning of year	2,754,929	1,534,605
Cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash and cash equivalents - end of nine months	2,045,638	$ 2,998,201
Non-cash investing activity:
Change in accrued plant and equipment purchases	$ 14,997

Basis of Interim Presentation

Basis of Interim Presentation	9 Months Ended
	Oct. 02, 2021
Organization Consolidation And Presentation Of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Basis of Interim Presentation	1. Basis of Interim Presentation The information furnished in this Item 1 reflects all adjustments which are, in the opinion of management, necessary to a fair statement of the results for the interim periods presented and are of a normal and recurring nature unless otherwise noted. The information furnished has not been audited; however, the December 31, 2020 condensed consolidated balance sheet data was derived from audited financial statements but does not include all disclosures required by accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. The unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements included in this Item 1 should be read in conjunction with the audited consolidated financial statements and the notes thereto included in Nucor’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2020.

Inventories

Inventories	9 Months Ended
	Oct. 02, 2021
Inventory Disclosure [Abstract]
Inventories	2. Inventories Inventories consisted of approximately 44% raw materials and supplies and 56% finished and semi-finished products at October 2, 2021 (42% and 58%, respectively, at December 31, 2020). Nucor’s manufacturing process consists of a continuous, vertically integrated process from which products are sold to customers at various stages throughout the process. Since most steel products can be classified as either finished or semi-finished products, these two categories of inventory are combined.

Property, Plant and Equipment

Property, Plant and Equipment	9 Months Ended
	Oct. 02, 2021
Property Plant And Equipment [Abstract]
Property, Plant and Equipment	3. Property, Plant and Equipment Property, plant and equipment is recorded net of accumulated depreciation of $10.33 billion at October 2, 2021 ($9.86 billion at December 31, 2020). Nucor reviews its natural gas well assets for impairment if and when circumstances indicate that a decline in value below their carrying amounts may have occurred. Nucor last assessed its proved producing natural gas well assets in the fourth quarter of 2020 due to the continued low-price natural gas pricing environment. After completing its assessment, Nucor determined that as of such time there were no impairments of any of its three groups of proved well assets. C Therefore, it is reasonably possible that u The combined carrying value of the three groups of wells was Nucor owns a 49% leasehold interest in unproved oil and natural gas properties in the South Piceance Basin located in Colorado. Nucor has full discretion on its participation in all future drilling capital investments related to the leasehold interest. Nucor is continually evaluating the market environment for natural gas and has the ability to increase output in a rising or higher natural gas price environment. In the second quarter of 2021, Nucor made the decision that it would not develop a portion of its unproved oil and natural gas properties (“Portion A”) within the contractually specified time period related to Portion A. As a result of this decision, the Company will forfeit its leasehold rights for Portion A. The Company recorded a charge of $42.0 million . The carrying value of the remaining portions of unproved oil and natural gas properties was $96.0 million at October 2, 2021.

Goodwill and Other Intangible A

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets	9 Months Ended
	Oct. 02, 2021
Goodwill And Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets	4. Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets The change in the net carrying amount of goodwill for the nine months ended October 2, 2021 by segment was as follows (in thousands): Steel Mills Steel Products Raw Materials Total Balance at December 31, 2020 $ 612,470 $ 887,625 $ 729,577 $ 2,229,672 Acquisitions 705 535,099 20,464 556,268 Other - (129 ) - (129 ) Translation - 2,181 - 2,181 Balance at October 2, 2021 $ 613,175 $ 1,424,776 $ 750,041 $ 2,787,992 Nucor completed its most recent annual goodwill impairment testing during the fourth quarter of 2020 and concluded that as of such time there was no impairment of goodwill for any of its reporting units. The annual assessment performed in 2020 for one of the Company’s reporting units, Rebar Fabrication, used forward-looking projections in future cash flows. The fair value of this reporting unit exceeded its carrying value by approximately 99% in the most recent assessment. The reporting unit was profitable in 2020 and we expect it to be profitable in 2021. If our assessment of the relevant facts and circumstances changes, or the actual performance of this reporting unit falls short of expected results, non-cash impairment charges may be required. Total goodwill associated with the Rebar Fabrication reporting unit was $366.2 million as of October 2, 2021 ($364.3 million as of December 31, 2020). An impairment of goodwill may also lead us to record an impairment of other intangible assets. Total finite-lived intangible assets associated with the Rebar Fabrication reporting unit were $52.2 million as of October 2, 2021 ($58.8 million as of December 31, 2020). There have been no triggering events requiring an interim assessment for impairment of the Rebar Fabrication reporting unit since the most recent annual goodwill impairment testing date. The annual assessment performed in 2020 for one of the Company’s reporting units, Grating, used forward-looking projections and included continued positive future cash flows. The fair value of this reporting unit exceeded its carrying value by approximately 88% in the most recent assessment. If our assessment of the relevant facts and circumstances changes, or the actual performance of this reporting unit falls short of expected results, non-cash impairment charges may be required. Total goodwill associated with the Grating reporting unit was $37.1 million as of October 2, 2021 ($37.0 million as of December 31, 2020). Intangible assets with estimated useful lives of five to 22 years are amortized on a straight-line or accelerated basis and were comprised of the following as of October 2, 2021 and December 31, 2020 (in thousands): October 2, 2021 December 31, 2020 Gross Amount Accumulated Amortization Gross Amount Accumulated Amortization Customer relationships $ 1,874,831 $ 897,952 $ 1,421,962 $ 838,443 Trademarks and trade names 233,423 106,928 162,365 100,000 Other 119,822 51,904 63,822 41,685 $ 2,228,076 $ 1,056,784 $ 1,648,149 $ 980,128 Intangible asset amortization expense in the third quarter of 2021 and 2020 was $34.8 million and $20.7 million, respectively, and $76.7 million and $62.9 million in the first nine months of 2021 and 2020, respectively. Annual amortization expense is estimated to be $124.1 million in 2021; $169.9 million in 2022; $133.9 million in 2023; $133.1 million in 2024; and $132.2 million in 2025.

Current Liabilities

Current Liabilities	9 Months Ended
	Oct. 02, 2021
Payables And Accruals [Abstract]
Current Liabilities	5. Current Liabilities Book overdrafts, included in accounts payable in the condensed consolidated balance sheets, were $147.8 million at October 2, 2021 ($210.5 million at December 31, 2020). Dividends payable, included in accrued expenses and other current liabilities in the condensed consolidated balance sheets, were $116.9 million at October 2, 2021 ($123.9 million at December 31, 2020).

Fair Value Measurements

Fair Value Measurements	9 Months Ended
	Oct. 02, 2021
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair Value Measurements	6. Fair Value Measurements The following table summarizes information regarding Nucor’s financial assets and financial liabilities that were measured at fair value as of October 2, 2021 and December 31, 2020 (in thousands). Nucor does not have any non-financial assets or non-financial liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis. Fair Value Measurements at Reporting Date Using Description Carrying Amount in Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) As of October 2, 2021 Assets: Cash equivalents $ 1,111,994 $ 1,111,994 $ - $ - Short-term investments 247,247 247,247 - - Restricted cash and cash equivalents 281,345 281,345 - - Derivative contracts 31,257 - 31,257 - Total assets $ 1,671,843 $ 1,640,586 $ 31,257 $ - Liabilities: Derivative contracts $ (4,133 ) $ - $ (4,133 ) $ - As of December 31, 2020 Assets: Cash equivalents $ 2,186,820 $ 2,186,820 $ - $ - Short-term investments 408,004 408,004 - - Restricted cash and cash equivalents 115,258 115,258 - - Total assets $ 2,710,082 $ 2,710,082 $ - $ - Liabilities: Derivative contracts $ (14,361 ) $ - $ (14,361 ) $ - Fair value measurements for Nucor’s cash equivalents, short-term investments and restricted cash and cash equivalents are classified under Level 1 because such measurements are based on quoted market prices in active markets for identical assets. Our short-term investments at October 2, 2021 consisted of certificates of deposit, commercial paper and corporate notes. Fair value measurements for Nucor’s derivatives are classified under Level 2 because such measurements are based on published market prices for similar assets or are estimated based on observable inputs such as interest rates, yield curves, credit risks, spot and future commodity prices, and spot and future exchange rates. There were no transfers between the levels in the fair value hierarchy for the periods presented. The fair value of short-term and long-term debt, including current maturities, was approximately $6.09 billion at October 2, 2021 ($6.05 billion at December 31, 2020). The debt fair value estimates are classified under Level 2 because such estimates are based on readily available market prices of our debt at October 2, 2021 and December 31, 2020, or similar debt with the same maturities, ratings and interest rates.

Contingencies

Contingencies	9 Months Ended
	Oct. 02, 2021
Commitments And Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Contingencies	7. Contingencies Nucor is subject to environmental laws and regulations established by federal, state and local authorities and, accordingly, makes provisions for the estimated costs of compliance. Of the undiscounted total of $14.2 million of accrued environmental costs at October 2, 2021 ($16.0 million at December 31, 2020), $2.9 million was classified in accrued expenses and other current liabilities ($5.6 million at December 31, 2020) and $11.3 million was classified in deferred credits and other liabilities ($10.4 million at December 31, 2020). Inherent uncertainties exist in these estimates primarily due to unknown conditions, evolving remediation technology and changing governmental regulations, legal standards and enforcement priorities. We are from time to time a party to various lawsuits, claims and other legal proceedings that arise in the ordinary course of business. With respect to all such lawsuits, claims and proceedings, we record reserves when it is probable a liability has been incurred and the amount of loss can be reasonably estimated. We do not believe that any of these proceedings, individually or in the aggregate, would be expected to have a material adverse effect on our results of operations, financial position or cash flows. Nucor maintains liability insurance with self-insurance limits for certain risks.

Stock-Based Compensation

Stock-Based Compensation	9 Months Ended
	Oct. 02, 2021
Disclosure Of Compensation Related Costs Sharebased Payments [Abstract]
Stock-Based Compensation	8. Stock-Based Compensation Overview The Company maintains the Nucor Corporation 2014 Omnibus Incentive Compensation Plan (the “Omnibus Plan”) under which the Company may award stock-based compensation to key employees, officers and non-employee directors. The Company’s stockholders approved an amendment and restatement of the Omnibus Plan on May 14, 2020. The Omnibus Plan, as amended and restated, permits the award of stock options, restricted stock units, restricted shares and other stock-based awards for up to 19.0 million shares of the Company’s common stock. As of October 2, 2021, 7.0 million shares remained available for award under the Omnibus Plan. The Company also maintains a number of inactive plans under which stock-based awards remain outstanding but no further awards may be made. As of October 2, 2021, 0.5 million shares were reserved for issuance upon the future settlement of outstanding awards under such inactive plans. Stock Options Stock options may be granted to Nucor’s key employees, officers and non-employee directors with exercise prices at 100% of the market value on the date of the grant. The stock options granted are generally exercisable at the end of three years and have a term of 10 years. A summary of activity under Nucor’s stock option plans for the first nine months of 2021 is as follows (shares in thousands): Weighted- Weighted- Average Average Aggregate Exercise Remaining Intrinsic Shares Price Contractual Life Value Number of shares under stock options: Outstanding at beginning of year 3,916 $ 50.03 Granted 138 $ 110.74 Exercised (2,839 ) $ 50.68 $ 65,859 Canceled - $ - Outstanding at October 2, 2021 1,215 $ 55.40 6.8 years $ 53,125 Stock options exercisable at October 2, 2021 552 $ 54.36 4.7 years $ 24,083 Stock options granted to employees who are eligible for retirement on the date of the grant are expensed immediately since these awards vest upon retirement from the Company. Retirement, for purposes of vesting in these stock options, means termination of employment after satisfying age and years of service requirements. Similarly, stock options granted to employees who will become retirement-eligible prior to the end of the vesting term are expensed over the period through which the employee will become retirement-eligible. Compensation expense for stock options granted to employees who will not become retirement-eligible prior to the end of the vesting term is recognized on a straight-line basis over the vesting period. Compensation expense for stock options was $0.5 million and $0.3 million in the third quarter of 2021 and 2020, respectively, and $3.4 million and $2.4 million in the first nine months of 2021 and 2020, respectively. As of October 2, 2021, unrecognized compensation expense related to stock options was $3.5 million, which is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 2.2 years. Restricted Stock Units Nucor annually grants restricted stock units (“RSUs”) to key employees, officers and non-employee directors. The RSUs granted to key employees and officers vest and are converted to common stock in three equal installments on each of the first three anniversaries of the grant date. Retirement, for purposes of vesting in these RSUs only, means termination of employment with approval of the Compensation and Executive Development Committee of the Board of Directors after satisfying age and years of service requirements. RSUs granted to a non-employee director are fully vested on the grant date and are payable to the non-employee director in the form of common stock after the termination of the director’s service on the Board of Directors. RSUs granted to employees who are eligible for retirement on the date of the grant are expensed immediately, and RSUs granted to employees who will become retirement-eligible prior to the end of the vesting term are expensed over the period through which the employee will become retirement-eligible since these awards vest upon retirement from the Company. Compensation expense for RSUs granted to employees who will not become retirement-eligible prior to the end of the vesting term is recognized on a straight-line basis over the vesting period. Cash dividend equivalents are paid to holders of RSUs each quarter. Dividend equivalents paid on RSUs expected to vest are recognized as a reduction in retained earnings. The fair value of an RSU is determined based on the closing price of Nucor’s common stock on the date of the grant. A summary of Nucor’s RSU activity for the first nine months of 2021 is as follows (shares in thousands): Shares Grant Date Fair Value Restricted stock units: Unvested at beginning of year 1,830 $ 47.33 Granted 397 $ 110.74 Vested (918 ) $ 57.41 Canceled (58 ) $ 48.67 Unvested at October 2, 2021 1,251 $ 60.00 Compensation expense for RSUs was $10.4 million and $11.1 million in the third quarter of 2021 and 2020, respectively, and $42.4 million and $47.9 million in the first nine months of 2021 and 2020, respectively. As of October 2, 2021, unrecognized compensation expense related to unvested RSUs was $53.2 million, which is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 1.3 years. Restricted Stock Awards Prior to their expiration effective December 31, 2017, the Nucor Corporation Senior Officers Long-Term Incentive Plan and the Nucor Corporation Senior Officers Annual Incentive Plan authorized the award of shares of common stock to officers subject to certain conditions and restrictions. Effective January 1, 2018, the Company adopted supplements to the Omnibus Plan with terms that permit the award of shares of common stock to officers subject to the conditions and restrictions described below, which are substantially similar to those of the expired Senior Officers Long-Term Incentive Plan and Senior Officers Annual Incentive Plan. The expired Senior Officers Long-Term Incentive Plan, together with the applicable supplement, is referred to below as the “LTIP,” and the expired Senior Officers Annual Incentive Plan, together with the applicable supplement, is referred to below as the “AIP.” The LTIP provides for the award of shares of restricted common stock at the end of each LTIP performance measurement period at no cost to officers if certain financial performance goals are met during the period. One-third of the LTIP restricted stock award vests upon each of the first three anniversaries of the award date or, if earlier, upon the officer’s attainment of age 55 while employed by Nucor. Although participants are entitled to cash dividends and may vote such awarded shares, the sale or transfer of such shares is limited during the restricted period. The AIP provides for the payment of annual cash incentive awards. An AIP participant may elect, however, to defer payment of up to one-half of an AIP award. In such event, the deferred AIP award is converted into common stock units and credited with a deferral incentive, in the form of additional common stock units, equal to 25% of the number of common stock units attributable to the deferred AIP award. Common stock units attributable to deferred AIP awards are fully vested. Common stock units credited as a deferral incentive vest upon the AIP participant’s attainment of age 55 while employed by Nucor. Vested common stock units are paid to AIP participants in the form of shares of common stock following their termination of employment with Nucor. A summary of Nucor’s restricted stock activity under the AIP and the LTIP for the first nine months of 2021 is as follows (shares in thousands): Grant Date Shares Fair Value Restricted stock units and restricted stock awards: Unvested at beginning of year 127 $ 49.94 Granted 262 $ 65.61 Vested (243 ) $ 62.92 Canceled (9 ) $ 48.75 Unvested at October 2, 2021 137 $ 56.93 Compensation expense for common stock and common stock units awarded under the AIP and the LTIP is recorded over the performance measurement and vesting periods based on the anticipated number and market value of shares of common stock and common stock units to be awarded. Compensation expense for anticipated awards based upon Nucor’s financial performance, exclusive of amounts payable in cash, was $20.1 million and $3.3 million in the third quarter of 2021 and 2020, respectively, and $51.9 million and $5.8 million in the first nine months of 2021 and 2020, respectively. As of October 2, 2021, unrecognized compensation expense related to unvested restricted stock awards was $1.7 million, which is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 1.8 years.

Employee Benefit Plan

Employee Benefit Plan	9 Months Ended
	Oct. 02, 2021
Compensation And Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]
Employee Benefit Plan	9. Employee Benefit Plan Nucor makes contributions to a Profit Sharing and Retirement Savings Plan for qualified employees based on the profitability of the Company. Nucor’s expense for these benefits totaled $274.9 million and $27.5 million in the third quarter of 2021 and 2020, respectively, and $596.2 million and $59.5 million in the first nine months of 2021 and 2020, respectively. The related liability for these benefits is included in salaries, wages and related accruals in the condensed consolidated balance sheets.

Interest Expense (Income)

Interest Expense (Income)	9 Months Ended
	Oct. 02, 2021
Banking And Thrift Interest [Abstract]
Interest Expense (Income)	10. Interest Expense (Income) The components of net interest expense for the third quarter and first nine months of 2021 and 2020 are as follows (in thousands): Three Months (13 Weeks) Ended Nine Months (39 Weeks) Ended Oct. 2, 2021 Oct. 3, 2020 Oct. 2, 2021 Oct. 3, 2020 Interest expense $ 43,908 $ 42,281 $ 122,539 $ 128,726 Interest income (623 ) (2,142 ) (3,830 ) (11,870 ) Interest expense, net $ 43,285 $ 40,139 $ 118,709 $ 116,856

Income Taxes

Income Taxes	9 Months Ended
	Oct. 02, 2021
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income Taxes	11. Income Taxes The effective tax rate for the third quarter of 2021 was 22.5% compared to 23.3% for the third quarter of 2020. Nucor has concluded U.S. federal income tax matters for tax years through 2014 and for tax year 2016. The tax years 2015 and 2017 through 2020 remain open to examination by the Internal Revenue Service. The 2015 Canadian income tax returns for Harris Steel Group Inc. and certain related affiliates are currently under examination by the Canada Revenue Agency. The tax years 2014 through 2020 remain open to examination by other major taxing jurisdictions to which Nucor is subject (primarily Canada and other state and local jurisdictions). Non-current deferred tax liabilities included in deferred credits and other liabilities in the condensed consolidated balance sheets were $771.4 million at October 2, 2021 ($596.4 million at December 31, 2020).

Stockholders' Equity

Stockholders' Equity	9 Months Ended
	Oct. 02, 2021
Equity [Abstract]
Stockholders' Equity	12. Stockholders’ Equity The following tables reflect the changes in stockholders’ equity attributable to both Nucor and the noncontrolling interests of Nucor’s joint ventures, primarily Nucor-Yamato Steel Company (Limited Partnership) (“NYS”) of which Nucor owns 51%, for the three months and nine months ended October 2, 2021 and October 3, 2020 (in thousands): Three Months (13 Weeks) Ended October 2, 2021 Accumulated Total Additional Other Treasury Stock Nucor Common Stock Paid-in Retained Comprehensive (at cost) Stockholders' Noncontrolling Total Shares Amount Capital Earnings Income (Loss) Shares Amount Equity Interests BALANCES, July 3, 2021 $ 12,709,651 380,154 $ 152,061 $ 2,117,155 $ 13,550,406 $ (73,729 ) 86,459 $ (3,491,915 ) $ 12,253,978 $ 455,673 Net earnings 2,223,265 - - - 2,127,743 - - - 2,127,743 95,522 Other comprehensive income (loss) (12,172 ) - - - - (12,172 ) - - (12,172 ) - Stock options exercised 15,075 - - 2,699 - - (285 ) 12,376 15,075 - Stock option expense 458 - - 458 - - - - 458 - Issuance of stock under award plans, net of forfeitures 11,629 - - 10,802 - - (19 ) 827 11,629 - Amortization of unearned compensation 400 - - 400 - - - - 400 - Treasury stock acquired (857,703 ) - - - - - 8,200 (857,703 ) (857,703 ) - Cash dividends declared (116,888 ) - - - (116,888 ) - - - (116,888 ) - Distributions to noncontrolling interests (23,423 ) - - - - - - - - (23,423 ) BALANCES, October 2, 2021 $ 13,950,292 380,154 $ 152,061 $ 2,131,514 $ 15,561,261 $ (85,901 ) 94,355 $ (4,336,415 ) $ 13,422,520 $ 527,772 Nine Months (39 Weeks) Ended October 2, 2021 Accumulated Total Additional Other Treasury Stock Nucor Common Stock Paid-in Retained Comprehensive (at cost) Stockholders' Noncontrolling Total Shares Amount Capital Earnings Income (Loss) Shares Amount Equity Interests BALANCES, December 31, 2020 $ 11,231,861 380,154 $ 152,061 $ 2,121,288 $ 11,343,852 $ (118,861 ) 77,909 $ (2,709,675 ) $ 10,788,665 $ 443,196 Net earnings 4,782,238 - - - 4,577,043 - - - 4,577,043 205,195 Other comprehensive income (loss) 32,960 - - - - 32,960 - - 32,960 - Stock options exercised 143,874 - - 38,523 - - (2,839 ) 105,351 143,874 - Stock option expense 3,367 - - 3,367 - - - - 3,367 - Issuance of stock under award plans, net of forfeitures 8,893 - - (32,864 ) - - (1,060 ) 41,757 8,893 - Amortization of unearned compensation 1,200 - - 1,200 - - - - 1,200 - Treasury stock acquired (1,773,848 ) - - - - - 20,345 (1,773,848 ) (1,773,848 ) - Cash dividends declared (359,634 ) - - - (359,634 ) - - - (359,634 ) - Distributions to noncontrolling interests (120,619 ) - - - - - - - - (120,619 ) BALANCES, October 2, 2021 $ 13,950,292 380,154 $ 152,061 $ 2,131,514 $ 15,561,261 $ (85,901 ) 94,355 $ (4,336,415 ) $ 13,422,520 $ 527,772 Three Months (13 Weeks) Ended October 3, 2020 Accumulated Total Additional Other Treasury Stock Nucor Common Stock Paid-in Retained Comprehensive (at cost) Stockholders' Noncontrolling Total Shares Amount Capital Earnings Income (Loss) Shares Amount Equity Interests BALANCES, July 4, 2020 $ 10,623,485 380,154 $ 152,061 $ 2,106,907 $ 10,998,533 $ (340,836 ) 78,259 $ (2,721,845 ) $ 10,194,820 $ 428,665 Net earnings 222,630 - - - 193,415 - - - 193,415 29,215 Other comprehensive income (loss) 25,367 - - - - 25,367 - - 25,367 - Stock option expense 263 - - 263 - - - - 263 - Issuance of stock under award plans, net of forfeitures 11,189 - - 10,012 - - (34 ) 1,177 11,189 - Amortization of unearned compensation 400 - - 400 - - - - 400 - Cash dividends declared (123,039 ) - - - (123,039 ) - - - (123,039 ) - Distributions to noncontrolling interests (43,228 ) - - - - - - - - (43,228 ) Other - - - - (1 ) - - - (1 ) 1 BALANCES, October 3, 2020 $ 10,717,067 380,154 $ 152,061 $ 2,117,582 $ 11,068,908 $ (315,469 ) 78,225 $ (2,720,668 ) $ 10,302,414 $ 414,653 Nine Months (39 Weeks) Ended October 3, 2020 Accumulated Total Additional Other Treasury Stock Nucor Common Stock Paid-in Retained Comprehensive (at cost) Stockholders' Noncontrolling Total Shares Amount Capital Earnings Income (Loss) Shares Amount Equity Interests BALANCES, December 31, 2019 $ 10,791,176 380,154 $ 152,061 $ 2,107,646 $ 11,115,056 $ (302,966 ) 78,342 $ (2,713,931 ) $ 10,357,866 $ 433,310 Net earnings 410,162 - - - 322,627 - - - 322,627 87,535 Other comprehensive income (loss) (12,503 ) - - - - (12,503 ) - - (12,503 ) - Stock option expense 2,402 - - 2,402 - - - - 2,402 - Issuance of stock under award plans, net of forfeitures 38,996 - - 6,234 - - (942 ) 32,762 38,996 - Amortization of unearned compensation 1,300 - - 1,300 - - - - 1,300 - Treasury stock acquired (39,499 ) - - - - - 825 (39,499 ) (39,499 ) - Cash dividends declared (368,774 ) - - - (368,774 ) - - - (368,774 ) - Distributions to noncontrolling interests (106,193 ) - - - - - - - - (106,193 ) Other - - - - (1 ) - - - (1 ) 1 BALANCES, October 3, 2020 $ 10,717,067 380,154 $ 152,061 $ 2,117,582 $ 11,068,908 $ (315,469 ) 78,225 $ (2,720,668 ) $ 10,302,414 $ 414,653 Dividends declared per share were $0.405 per share in the third quarter of 2021 ($0.4025 per share in the third quarter of 2020) and $1.215 per share in the first nine months of 2021 ($1.2075 per share in the first nine months of 2020). On May 13, 2021, the Company announced that the Board of Directors had approved a new share repurchase program under which the Company is authorized to repurchase up to $3.00 billion of the Company’s common stock and terminated any previously authorized share repurchase programs. Share repurchases will be made from time to time in the open market at prevailing market prices or through private transactions or block trades. The timing and amount of repurchases will depend on market conditions, share price, applicable legal requirements and other factors. The share repurchase authorization is discretionary and has no expiration date. As of October 2, 2021, the Company had approximately $1.94 billion remaining available for share repurchases under the program.

Accumulated Other Comprehensive

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)	9 Months Ended
	Oct. 02, 2021
Equity [Abstract]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)	13. Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) The following tables reflect the changes in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) by component for the three months and nine months ended October 2, 2021 and October 3, 2020 (in thousands): Three-Month (13-Week) Period Ended October 2, 2021 Gains and Losses on Foreign Currency Adjustment to Early Hedging Derivatives Gain (Loss) Retiree Medical Plan Total Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) at July 3, 2021 $ 5,200 $ (85,595 ) $ 6,666 $ (73,729 ) Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications 19,057 (28,772 ) - (9,715 ) Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) into earnings (1) (2,457 ) - - (2,457 ) Net current-period other comprehensive income (loss) 16,600 (28,772 ) - (12,172 ) Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) at October 2, 2021 $ 21,800 $ (114,367 ) $ 6,666 $ (85,901 ) Nine-Month (39-Week) Period Ended October 2, 2021 Gains and Losses on Foreign Currency Adjustment to Early Hedging Derivatives Gain (Loss) Retiree Medical Plan Total Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) at December 31, 2020 $ (4,700 ) $ (120,827 ) $ 6,666 $ (118,861 ) Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications 28,260 6,460 - 34,720 Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) into earnings (1) (1,760 ) - - (1,760 ) Net current-period other comprehensive income (loss) 26,500 6,460 - 32,960 Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) at October 2, 2021 $ 21,800 $ (114,367 ) $ 6,666 $ (85,901 ) (1) Includes $(2,457) and $(1,760) of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) reclassifications into cost of products sold for net losses on commodity contracts in the third quarter and first nine months of 2021, respectively. The tax impact of those reclassifications was $(800) and $(700) in the third quarter and first nine months of 2021, respectively. Three-Month (13-Week) Period Ended October 3, 2020 Gains and Losses on Foreign Currency Adjustment to Early Hedging Derivatives Gain (Loss) Retiree Medical Plan Total Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) at July 4, 2020 $ (10,900 ) $ (337,743 ) $ 7,807 $ (340,836 ) Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications 6,387 16,867 - 23,254 Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) into earnings (2) 2,113 - - 2,113 Net current-period other comprehensive income (loss) 8,500 16,867 - 25,367 Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) at October 3, 2020 $ (2,400 ) $ (320,876 ) $ 7,807 $ (315,469 ) Nine-Month (39-Week) Period Ended October 3, 2020 Gains and Losses on Foreign Currency Adjustment to Early Hedging Derivatives Gain (Loss) Retiree Medical Plan Total Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) at December 31, 2019 $ (14,000 ) $ (296,773 ) $ 7,807 $ (302,966 ) Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications 4,888 (24,103 ) - (19,215 ) Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) into earnings (2) 6,712 - - 6,712 Net current-period other comprehensive income (loss) 11,600 (24,103 ) - (12,503 ) Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) at October 3, 2020 $ (2,400 ) $ (320,876 ) $ 7,807 $ (315,469 ) (2) Includes $2,113 and $6,712 of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) reclassifications into cost of products sold for net losses on commodity contracts in the third quarter and first nine months of 2020, respectively. The tax impact of those reclassifications was $700 and $2,300 in the third quarter and first nine months of 2020, respectively.

Segments

Segments	9 Months Ended
	Oct. 02, 2021
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Segments	14. Segments Nucor reports its results in the following segments: steel mills, steel products and raw materials. The steel mills segment includes carbon and alloy steel in sheet, bars, structural and plate; steel trading businesses; rebar distribution businesses; and Nucor’s equity method investments in NuMit LLC (“NuMit”) and Nucor-JFE Steel Mexico, S. de R.L. de C.V. (“Nucor-JFE”). The steel products segment includes steel joists and joist girders, steel deck, fabricated concrete reinforcing steel, cold finished steel, precision castings, steel fasteners, metal building systems, insulated metal panels, steel grating, tubular products businesses, steel racking, piling products business and wire and wire mesh. The raw materials segment includes The David J. Joseph Company and its affiliates (“DJJ”), primarily a scrap broker and processor; Nu-Iron Unlimited and Nucor Steel Louisiana LLC (“Nucor Steel Louisiana”), two facilities that produce direct reduced iron (“DRI”) used by the steel mills; and our natural gas production operations. Net interest expense on long-term debt, charges and credits associated with changes in allowances to eliminate intercompany profit in inventory, profit sharing expense and stock-based compensation are shown under Corporate/eliminations. Corporate assets primarily include cash and cash equivalents, short-term investments, restricted cash and cash equivalents, allowances to eliminate intercompany profit in inventory, deferred income tax assets, federal and state income taxes receivable and investments in and advances to affiliates. Nucor’s results by segment for the third quarter and first nine months of 2021 and 2020 were as follows (in thousands): Three Months (13 Weeks) Ended Nine Months (39 Weeks) Ended Oct. 2, 2021 Oct. 3, 2020 Oct. 2, 2021 Oct. 3, 2020 Net sales to external customers: Steel mills $ 6,862,133 $ 2,842,625 $ 17,380,819 $ 8,875,856 Steel products 2,744,279 1,738,004 6,795,441 4,988,026 Raw materials 706,811 347,331 1,943,267 1,015,721 $ 10,313,223 $ 4,927,960 $ 26,119,527 $ 14,879,603 Intercompany sales: Steel mills $ 1,840,007 $ 731,942 $ 4,561,418 $ 2,264,278 Steel products 93,910 51,029 245,523 197,603 Raw materials 4,355,702 1,863,796 12,011,705 5,772,583 Corporate/eliminations (6,289,619) (2,646,767 ) (16,818,646) (8,234,464 ) $ - $ - $ - $ - Earnings (losses) before income taxes and noncontrolling interests: Steel mills $ 3,116,539 $ 205,152 $ 6,606,320 $ 512,082 Steel products 368,595 186,976 839,737 502,409 Raw materials 161,870 6,232 505,248 (3,068 ) Corporate/eliminations (777,897) (107,942 ) (1,758,204) (393,651 ) $ 2,869,107 $ 290,418 $ 6,193,101 $ 617,772 Oct. 2, 2021 Dec. 31, 2020 Segment assets: Steel mills $ 12,800,019 $ 9,708,260 Steel products 7,667,192 4,461,042 Raw materials 3,788,291 3,324,489 Corporate/eliminations 693,977 2,631,603 $ 24,949,479 $ 20,125,394

Revenue

Revenue	9 Months Ended
	Oct. 02, 2021
Revenue From Contract With Customer [Abstract]
Revenue	The following tables disaggregate our revenue by major source for the third quarter and first nine months of 2021 and 2020 (in thousands): Three Months (13 Weeks) Ended October 2, 2021 Nine Months (39 Weeks) Ended October 2, 2021 Steel Mills Steel Products Raw Materials Total Steel Mills Steel Products Raw Materials Total Sheet $ 3,643,599 $ - $ - $ 3,643,599 $ 9,099,358 $ - $ - $ 9,099,358 Bar 1,633,641 - - 1,633,641 4,409,798 - - 4,409,798 Structural 765,440 - - 765,440 1,862,176 - - 1,862,176 Plate 819,453 - - 819,453 2,009,487 - - 2,009,487 Tubular Products - 678,178 - 678,178 - 1,565,334 - 1,565,334 Rebar Fabrication - 475,861 - 475,861 - 1,343,145 - 1,343,145 Other Steel Products - 1,590,240 - 1,590,240 - 3,886,962 - 3,886,962 Raw Materials - - 706,811 706,811 - - 1,943,267 1,943,267 $ 6,862,133 $ 2,744,279 $ 706,811 $ 10,313,223 $ 17,380,819 $ 6,795,441 $ 1,943,267 $ 26,119,527 Three Months (13 Weeks) Ended October 3, 2020 Nine Months (39 Weeks) Ended October 3, 2020 Steel Mills Steel Products Raw Materials Total Steel Mills Steel Products Raw Materials Total Sheet $ 1,256,537 $ - $ - $ 1,256,537 $ 3,899,970 $ - $ - $ 3,899,970 Bar 957,216 - - 957,216 2,830,936 - - 2,830,936 Structural 362,192 - - 362,192 1,159,949 - - 1,159,949 Plate 266,680 - - 266,680 985,001 - - 985,001 Tubular Products - 274,915 - 274,915 - 830,283 - 830,283 Rebar Fabrication - 463,286 - 463,286 - 1,300,518 - 1,300,518 Other Steel Products - 999,803 - 999,803 - 2,857,225 - 2,857,225 Raw Materials - - 347,331 347,331 - - 1,015,721 1,015,721 $ 2,842,625 $ 1,738,004 $ 347,331 $ 4,927,960 $ 8,875,856 $ 4,988,026 $ 1,015,721 $ 14,879,603 Contract liabilities are primarily related to deferred revenue resulting from cash payments received in advance from customers to protect against credit risk. Contract liabilities totaled $232.3 million as of October 2, 2021 ($120.2 million as of December 31, 2020), and are included in accrued expenses and other current liabilities in the condensed consolidated balance sheets.

Earnings Per Share

Earnings Per Share	9 Months Ended
	Oct. 02, 2021
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Earnings Per Share	16. Earnings Per Share The computations of basic and diluted net earnings per share for the third quarter and first nine months of 2021 and 2020 are as follows (in thousands, except per share amounts): Three Months (13 Weeks) Ended Nine Months (39 Weeks) Ended Oct. 2, 2021 Oct. 3, 2020 Oct. 2, 2021 Oct. 3, 2020 Basic net earnings per share: Basic net earnings $ 2,127,743 $ 193,415 $ 4,577,043 $ 322,627 Earnings allocated to participating securities (9,442 ) (1,201 ) (22,272 ) (2,182 ) Net earnings available to common stockholders $ 2,118,301 $ 192,214 $ 4,554,771 $ 320,445 Basic average shares outstanding 290,510 303,394 296,431 303,072 Basic net earnings per share $ 7.29 $ 0.63 $ 15.37 $ 1.06 Diluted net earnings per share: Diluted net earnings $ 2,127,743 $ 193,415 $ 4,577,043 $ 322,627 Earnings allocated to participating securities (9,401 ) (1,202 ) (22,194 ) (2,182 ) Net earnings available to common stockholders $ 2,118,342 $ 192,213 $ 4,554,849 $ 320,445 Diluted average shares outstanding: Basic average shares outstanding 290,510 303,394 296,431 303,072 Dilutive effect of stock options and other 642 47 497 27 291,152 303,441 296,928 303,099 Diluted net earnings per share $ 7.28 $ 0.63 $ 15.34 $ 1.06 The following stock options were excluded from the computation of diluted net earnings per share for the third quarter and first nine months of 2021 and 2020 because their effect would have been anti-dilutive (shares in thousands): Three Months (13 Weeks) Ended Nine Months (39 Weeks) Ended Oct. 2, 2021 Oct. 3, 2020 Oct. 2, 2021 Oct. 3, 2020 Anti-dilutive stock options: Weighted-average shares 52 3,463 119 3,638 Weighted-average exercise price $ 110.74 $ 51.38 $ 78.91 $ 51.15

Acquisitions

Acquisitions	9 Months Ended
	Oct. 02, 2021
Business Combinations [Abstract]
Acquisitions	17. Acquisitions On August 9, 2021, Nucor used cash on hand to acquire the assets of the insulated metal panels (“IMP”) business of Cornerstone Building Brands, Inc. for a purchase price of $1.00 billion. The Company believes this acquisition is strategically compelling and will broaden the value-added solutions that Nucor Buildings Group provides to targeted end markets such as warehousing, distribution and data centers. We expect these end-use markets to continue to grow in the coming years and that the use of IMP products within them will also increase. IMPs facilitate cost-effective climate control in the built environment and reduce energy usage and overall operations-related greenhouse gas emissions for owners and lessees. The IMP business Nucor acquired is comprised of two industry leading brands, CENTRIA and Metl-Span, and has seven manufacturing facilities located throughout North America, complementing the Company’s existing IMP business, Truecore. The IMP business financial results are included as part of the steel products segment (see Note 14). We have allocated the purchase price for the IMP business to its individual assets acquired and liabilities assumed. While the purchase price allocation is substantially complete, it is still preliminary and subject to change. The following table summarizes the fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed of the IMP business as of the date of acquisition (in thousands): Cash $ — Accounts receivable 49,869 Inventory 73,000 Other current assets 4,478 Property, plant and equipment 102,966 Goodwill 454,549 Other intangible assets 378,300 Other assets 13,515 Total assets acquired 1,076,677 Current liabilities 45,320 Other liabilities 12,855 Total liabilities assumed 58,175 Net assets acquired $ 1,018,502 The following table summarizes the purchase price allocation to the identifiable intangible assets of the IMP business as of the date of acquisition (in thousands, except years): Weighted- Average Life Customer relationships $ 309,000 10 years Trademarks and trade names 45,000 10 years Backlog 24,300 1 year $ 378,300 The goodwill of $454.5 million is calculated as the excess of the purchase price over the fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed and has been allocated to the steel products segment (see Note 4). The goodwill is attributable to expected synergies within the steel products segment. Goodwill recognized for tax purposes was $454.5 million, all of which is deductible for tax purposes. On August 20, 2021, Nucor used cash on hand to acquire Hannibal Industries, Inc. (“Hannibal”) for a purchase price of $370.0 million. Nucor purchased 100% of Hannibal's outstanding shares from its Employee Stock Ownership Plan. Hannibal is a leading national provider of steel racking solutions to warehouses. We expect that Hannibal’s business, serving customers in the e-commerce, industrial, food storage and retail segments, will also continue to grow in the coming years. Hannibal has manufacturing facilities in Los Angeles and Houston, as well as three distribution centers. Together, the acquisitions of the IMP business and Hannibal reflect the Company’s strategy to target the fastest growing segments of steel intensive construction markets. Hannibal’s financial results are included as part of the steel products segment (see Note 14). We have allocated the purchase price for Hannibal to its individual assets acquired and liabilities assumed. While the purchase price allocation is substantially complete, it is still preliminary and subject to change. The following table summarizes the fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed of Hannibal as of the date of acquisition (in thousands): Cash $ 125,628 Accounts receivable 115,728 Inventory 65,005 Other current assets 1,050 Property, plant and equipment 116,955 Goodwill 80,550 Other intangible assets 201,700 Other assets 8,776 Total assets acquired 715,392 Current liabilities 231,356 Finance lease obligations 80,124 Other liabilities 10,655 Total liabilities assumed 322,135 Net assets acquired $ 393,257 The following table summarizes the purchase price allocation to the identifiable intangible assets of Hannibal as of the date of acquisition (in thousands, except years): Weighted- Average Life Customer relationships $ 144,000 10 years Trademarks and trade names 26,000 7 years Backlog 31,700 1 year $ 201,700 The goodwill of $80.6 million is calculated as the excess of the purchase price over the fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed and has been allocated to the steel products segment (see Note 4). The goodwill is attributable to expected synergies within the steel products segment. Goodwill recognized for tax purposes was $80.6 million, all of which is deductible for tax purposes. The results of operations for the IMP business and Hannibal upon the effective date of the transactions have been included in the accompanying financial statements. Pro-forma results of operations of the Company would not be materially different as a result of the acquisitions of the IMP business and Hannibal and, therefore, this information is not presented.

Subsequent Events

Subsequent Events	9 Months Ended
	Oct. 02, 2021
Subsequent Events [Abstract]
Subsequent Events	18. Subsequent Events On November 5, 2021, Nucor amended and restated its revolving credit facility to increase the borrowing capacity from $1.50 billion to $1.75 billion and to extend its maturity date to November 5, 2026. This facility remains undrawn. On November 5, 2021, Nucor completed an offer to exchange its existing 2.979% Notes due 2055 (the “2055 Notes”) that have not been registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”) for a like principal amount of notes having terms substantially identical as the 2055 Notes and that are registered under the Securities Act.

Goodwill and Other Intangible_2

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Oct. 02, 2021
Goodwill And Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Change in Net Carrying Amount of Goodwill by Segment	The change in the net carrying amount of goodwill for the nine months ended October 2, 2021 by segment was as follows (in thousands): Steel Mills Steel Products Raw Materials Total Balance at December 31, 2020 $ 612,470 $ 887,625 $ 729,577 $ 2,229,672 Acquisitions 705 535,099 20,464 556,268 Other - (129 ) - (129 ) Translation - 2,181 - 2,181 Balance at October 2, 2021 $ 613,175 $ 1,424,776 $ 750,041 $ 2,787,992
Schedule of Intangible Assets	Intangible assets with estimated useful lives of five to 22 years are amortized on a straight-line or accelerated basis and were comprised of the following as of October 2, 2021 and December 31, 2020 (in thousands): October 2, 2021 December 31, 2020 Gross Amount Accumulated Amortization Gross Amount Accumulated Amortization Customer relationships $ 1,874,831 $ 897,952 $ 1,421,962 $ 838,443 Trademarks and trade names 233,423 106,928 162,365 100,000 Other 119,822 51,904 63,822 41,685 $ 2,228,076 $ 1,056,784 $ 1,648,149 $ 980,128

Fair Value Measurements (Tables

Fair Value Measurements (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Oct. 02, 2021
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Schedule of Financial Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value	The following table summarizes information regarding Nucor’s financial assets and financial liabilities that were measured at fair value as of October 2, 2021 and December 31, 2020 (in thousands). Nucor does not have any non-financial assets or non-financial liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis. Fair Value Measurements at Reporting Date Using Description Carrying Amount in Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) As of October 2, 2021 Assets: Cash equivalents $ 1,111,994 $ 1,111,994 $ - $ - Short-term investments 247,247 247,247 - - Restricted cash and cash equivalents 281,345 281,345 - - Derivative contracts 31,257 - 31,257 - Total assets $ 1,671,843 $ 1,640,586 $ 31,257 $ - Liabilities: Derivative contracts $ (4,133 ) $ - $ (4,133 ) $ - As of December 31, 2020 Assets: Cash equivalents $ 2,186,820 $ 2,186,820 $ - $ - Short-term investments 408,004 408,004 - - Restricted cash and cash equivalents 115,258 115,258 - - Total assets $ 2,710,082 $ 2,710,082 $ - $ - Liabilities: Derivative contracts $ (14,361 ) $ - $ (14,361 ) $ -

Stock-Based Compensation (Table

Stock-Based Compensation (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Oct. 02, 2021
Disclosure Of Compensation Related Costs Sharebased Payments [Abstract]
Summary of Stock Option Plans Activity	A summary of activity under Nucor’s stock option plans for the first nine months of 2021 is as follows (shares in thousands): Weighted- Weighted- Average Average Aggregate Exercise Remaining Intrinsic Shares Price Contractual Life Value Number of shares under stock options: Outstanding at beginning of year 3,916 $ 50.03 Granted 138 $ 110.74 Exercised (2,839 ) $ 50.68 $ 65,859 Canceled - $ - Outstanding at October 2, 2021 1,215 $ 55.40 6.8 years $ 53,125 Stock options exercisable at October 2, 2021 552 $ 54.36 4.7 years $ 24,083
Summary of Nucor's RSU Activity	A summary of Nucor’s RSU activity for the first nine months of 2021 is as follows (shares in thousands): Shares Grant Date Fair Value Restricted stock units: Unvested at beginning of year 1,830 $ 47.33 Granted 397 $ 110.74 Vested (918 ) $ 57.41 Canceled (58 ) $ 48.67 Unvested at October 2, 2021 1,251 $ 60.00
Summary of Nucor's Restricted Stock Activity under AIP and LTIP	A summary of Nucor’s restricted stock activity under the AIP and the LTIP for the first nine months of 2021 is as follows (shares in thousands): Grant Date Shares Fair Value Restricted stock units and restricted stock awards: Unvested at beginning of year 127 $ 49.94 Granted 262 $ 65.61 Vested (243 ) $ 62.92 Canceled (9 ) $ 48.75 Unvested at October 2, 2021 137 $ 56.93

Interest Expense (Income) (Tabl

Interest Expense (Income) (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Oct. 02, 2021
Banking And Thrift Interest [Abstract]
Schedule of Components of Net Interest Expense	The components of net interest expense for the third quarter and first nine months of 2021 and 2020 are as follows (in thousands): Three Months (13 Weeks) Ended Nine Months (39 Weeks) Ended Oct. 2, 2021 Oct. 3, 2020 Oct. 2, 2021 Oct. 3, 2020 Interest expense $ 43,908 $ 42,281 $ 122,539 $ 128,726 Interest income (623 ) (2,142 ) (3,830 ) (11,870 ) Interest expense, net $ 43,285 $ 40,139 $ 118,709 $ 116,856

Stockholders' Equity (Tables)

Stockholders' Equity (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Oct. 02, 2021
Equity [Abstract]
Schedule of Changes in Stockholders' Equity	The following tables reflect the changes in stockholders’ equity attributable to both Nucor and the noncontrolling interests of Nucor’s joint ventures, primarily Nucor-Yamato Steel Company (Limited Partnership) (“NYS”) of which Nucor owns 51%, for the three months and nine months ended October 2, 2021 and October 3, 2020 (in thousands): Three Months (13 Weeks) Ended October 2, 2021 Accumulated Total Additional Other Treasury Stock Nucor Common Stock Paid-in Retained Comprehensive (at cost) Stockholders' Noncontrolling Total Shares Amount Capital Earnings Income (Loss) Shares Amount Equity Interests BALANCES, July 3, 2021 $ 12,709,651 380,154 $ 152,061 $ 2,117,155 $ 13,550,406 $ (73,729 ) 86,459 $ (3,491,915 ) $ 12,253,978 $ 455,673 Net earnings 2,223,265 - - - 2,127,743 - - - 2,127,743 95,522 Other comprehensive income (loss) (12,172 ) - - - - (12,172 ) - - (12,172 ) - Stock options exercised 15,075 - - 2,699 - - (285 ) 12,376 15,075 - Stock option expense 458 - - 458 - - - - 458 - Issuance of stock under award plans, net of forfeitures 11,629 - - 10,802 - - (19 ) 827 11,629 - Amortization of unearned compensation 400 - - 400 - - - - 400 - Treasury stock acquired (857,703 ) - - - - - 8,200 (857,703 ) (857,703 ) - Cash dividends declared (116,888 ) - - - (116,888 ) - - - (116,888 ) - Distributions to noncontrolling interests (23,423 ) - - - - - - - - (23,423 ) BALANCES, October 2, 2021 $ 13,950,292 380,154 $ 152,061 $ 2,131,514 $ 15,561,261 $ (85,901 ) 94,355 $ (4,336,415 ) $ 13,422,520 $ 527,772 Nine Months (39 Weeks) Ended October 2, 2021 Accumulated Total Additional Other Treasury Stock Nucor Common Stock Paid-in Retained Comprehensive (at cost) Stockholders' Noncontrolling Total Shares Amount Capital Earnings Income (Loss) Shares Amount Equity Interests BALANCES, December 31, 2020 $ 11,231,861 380,154 $ 152,061 $ 2,121,288 $ 11,343,852 $ (118,861 ) 77,909 $ (2,709,675 ) $ 10,788,665 $ 443,196 Net earnings 4,782,238 - - - 4,577,043 - - - 4,577,043 205,195 Other comprehensive income (loss) 32,960 - - - - 32,960 - - 32,960 - Stock options exercised 143,874 - - 38,523 - - (2,839 ) 105,351 143,874 - Stock option expense 3,367 - - 3,367 - - - - 3,367 - Issuance of stock under award plans, net of forfeitures 8,893 - - (32,864 ) - - (1,060 ) 41,757 8,893 - Amortization of unearned compensation 1,200 - - 1,200 - - - - 1,200 - Treasury stock acquired (1,773,848 ) - - - - - 20,345 (1,773,848 ) (1,773,848 ) - Cash dividends declared (359,634 ) - - - (359,634 ) - - - (359,634 ) - Distributions to noncontrolling interests (120,619 ) - - - - - - - - (120,619 ) BALANCES, October 2, 2021 $ 13,950,292 380,154 $ 152,061 $ 2,131,514 $ 15,561,261 $ (85,901 ) 94,355 $ (4,336,415 ) $ 13,422,520 $ 527,772 Three Months (13 Weeks) Ended October 3, 2020 Accumulated Total Additional Other Treasury Stock Nucor Common Stock Paid-in Retained Comprehensive (at cost) Stockholders' Noncontrolling Total Shares Amount Capital Earnings Income (Loss) Shares Amount Equity Interests BALANCES, July 4, 2020 $ 10,623,485 380,154 $ 152,061 $ 2,106,907 $ 10,998,533 $ (340,836 ) 78,259 $ (2,721,845 ) $ 10,194,820 $ 428,665 Net earnings 222,630 - - - 193,415 - - - 193,415 29,215 Other comprehensive income (loss) 25,367 - - - - 25,367 - - 25,367 - Stock option expense 263 - - 263 - - - - 263 - Issuance of stock under award plans, net of forfeitures 11,189 - - 10,012 - - (34 ) 1,177 11,189 - Amortization of unearned compensation 400 - - 400 - - - - 400 - Cash dividends declared (123,039 ) - - - (123,039 ) - - - (123,039 ) - Distributions to noncontrolling interests (43,228 ) - - - - - - - - (43,228 ) Other - - - - (1 ) - - - (1 ) 1 BALANCES, October 3, 2020 $ 10,717,067 380,154 $ 152,061 $ 2,117,582 $ 11,068,908 $ (315,469 ) 78,225 $ (2,720,668 ) $ 10,302,414 $ 414,653 Nine Months (39 Weeks) Ended October 3, 2020 Accumulated Total Additional Other Treasury Stock Nucor Common Stock Paid-in Retained Comprehensive (at cost) Stockholders' Noncontrolling Total Shares Amount Capital Earnings Income (Loss) Shares Amount Equity Interests BALANCES, December 31, 2019 $ 10,791,176 380,154 $ 152,061 $ 2,107,646 $ 11,115,056 $ (302,966 ) 78,342 $ (2,713,931 ) $ 10,357,866 $ 433,310 Net earnings 410,162 - - - 322,627 - - - 322,627 87,535 Other comprehensive income (loss) (12,503 ) - - - - (12,503 ) - - (12,503 ) - Stock option expense 2,402 - - 2,402 - - - - 2,402 - Issuance of stock under award plans, net of forfeitures 38,996 - - 6,234 - - (942 ) 32,762 38,996 - Amortization of unearned compensation 1,300 - - 1,300 - - - - 1,300 - Treasury stock acquired (39,499 ) - - - - - 825 (39,499 ) (39,499 ) - Cash dividends declared (368,774 ) - - - (368,774 ) - - - (368,774 ) - Distributions to noncontrolling interests (106,193 ) - - - - - - - - (106,193 ) Other - - - - (1 ) - - - (1 ) 1 BALANCES, October 3, 2020 $ 10,717,067 380,154 $ 152,061 $ 2,117,582 $ 11,068,908 $ (315,469 ) 78,225 $ (2,720,668 ) $ 10,302,414 $ 414,653

Accumulated Other Comprehensi_2

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Oct. 02, 2021
Equity [Abstract]
Components of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)	The following tables reflect the changes in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) by component for the three months and nine months ended October 2, 2021 and October 3, 2020 (in thousands): Three-Month (13-Week) Period Ended October 2, 2021 Gains and Losses on Foreign Currency Adjustment to Early Hedging Derivatives Gain (Loss) Retiree Medical Plan Total Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) at July 3, 2021 $ 5,200 $ (85,595 ) $ 6,666 $ (73,729 ) Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications 19,057 (28,772 ) - (9,715 ) Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) into earnings (1) (2,457 ) - - (2,457 ) Net current-period other comprehensive income (loss) 16,600 (28,772 ) - (12,172 ) Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) at October 2, 2021 $ 21,800 $ (114,367 ) $ 6,666 $ (85,901 ) Nine-Month (39-Week) Period Ended October 2, 2021 Gains and Losses on Foreign Currency Adjustment to Early Hedging Derivatives Gain (Loss) Retiree Medical Plan Total Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) at December 31, 2020 $ (4,700 ) $ (120,827 ) $ 6,666 $ (118,861 ) Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications 28,260 6,460 - 34,720 Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) into earnings (1) (1,760 ) - - (1,760 ) Net current-period other comprehensive income (loss) 26,500 6,460 - 32,960 Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) at October 2, 2021 $ 21,800 $ (114,367 ) $ 6,666 $ (85,901 ) (1) Includes $(2,457) and $(1,760) of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) reclassifications into cost of products sold for net losses on commodity contracts in the third quarter and first nine months of 2021, respectively. The tax impact of those reclassifications was $(800) and $(700) in the third quarter and first nine months of 2021, respectively. Three-Month (13-Week) Period Ended October 3, 2020 Gains and Losses on Foreign Currency Adjustment to Early Hedging Derivatives Gain (Loss) Retiree Medical Plan Total Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) at July 4, 2020 $ (10,900 ) $ (337,743 ) $ 7,807 $ (340,836 ) Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications 6,387 16,867 - 23,254 Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) into earnings (2) 2,113 - - 2,113 Net current-period other comprehensive income (loss) 8,500 16,867 - 25,367 Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) at October 3, 2020 $ (2,400 ) $ (320,876 ) $ 7,807 $ (315,469 ) Nine-Month (39-Week) Period Ended October 3, 2020 Gains and Losses on Foreign Currency Adjustment to Early Hedging Derivatives Gain (Loss) Retiree Medical Plan Total Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) at December 31, 2019 $ (14,000 ) $ (296,773 ) $ 7,807 $ (302,966 ) Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications 4,888 (24,103 ) - (19,215 ) Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) into earnings (2) 6,712 - - 6,712 Net current-period other comprehensive income (loss) 11,600 (24,103 ) - (12,503 ) Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) at October 3, 2020 $ (2,400 ) $ (320,876 ) $ 7,807 $ (315,469 ) (2) Includes $2,113 and $6,712 of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) reclassifications into cost of products sold for net losses on commodity contracts in the third quarter and first nine months of 2020, respectively. The tax impact of those reclassifications was $700 and $2,300 in the third quarter and first nine months of 2020, respectively.

Segments (Tables)

Segments (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Oct. 02, 2021
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Segments	Nucor’s results by segment for the third quarter and first nine months of 2021 and 2020 were as follows (in thousands): Three Months (13 Weeks) Ended Nine Months (39 Weeks) Ended Oct. 2, 2021 Oct. 3, 2020 Oct. 2, 2021 Oct. 3, 2020 Net sales to external customers: Steel mills $ 6,862,133 $ 2,842,625 $ 17,380,819 $ 8,875,856 Steel products 2,744,279 1,738,004 6,795,441 4,988,026 Raw materials 706,811 347,331 1,943,267 1,015,721 $ 10,313,223 $ 4,927,960 $ 26,119,527 $ 14,879,603 Intercompany sales: Steel mills $ 1,840,007 $ 731,942 $ 4,561,418 $ 2,264,278 Steel products 93,910 51,029 245,523 197,603 Raw materials 4,355,702 1,863,796 12,011,705 5,772,583 Corporate/eliminations (6,289,619) (2,646,767 ) (16,818,646) (8,234,464 ) $ - $ - $ - $ - Earnings (losses) before income taxes and noncontrolling interests: Steel mills $ 3,116,539 $ 205,152 $ 6,606,320 $ 512,082 Steel products 368,595 186,976 839,737 502,409 Raw materials 161,870 6,232 505,248 (3,068 ) Corporate/eliminations (777,897) (107,942 ) (1,758,204) (393,651 ) $ 2,869,107 $ 290,418 $ 6,193,101 $ 617,772 Oct. 2, 2021 Dec. 31, 2020 Segment assets: Steel mills $ 12,800,019 $ 9,708,260 Steel products 7,667,192 4,461,042 Raw materials 3,788,291 3,324,489 Corporate/eliminations 693,977 2,631,603 $ 24,949,479 $ 20,125,394

Revenue (Tables)

Revenue (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Oct. 02, 2021
Revenue From Contract With Customer [Abstract]
Schedule of Net Sales Disaggregates by Major Source	The following tables disaggregate our revenue by major source for the third quarter and first nine months of 2021 and 2020 (in thousands): Three Months (13 Weeks) Ended October 2, 2021 Nine Months (39 Weeks) Ended October 2, 2021 Steel Mills Steel Products Raw Materials Total Steel Mills Steel Products Raw Materials Total Sheet $ 3,643,599 $ - $ - $ 3,643,599 $ 9,099,358 $ - $ - $ 9,099,358 Bar 1,633,641 - - 1,633,641 4,409,798 - - 4,409,798 Structural 765,440 - - 765,440 1,862,176 - - 1,862,176 Plate 819,453 - - 819,453 2,009,487 - - 2,009,487 Tubular Products - 678,178 - 678,178 - 1,565,334 - 1,565,334 Rebar Fabrication - 475,861 - 475,861 - 1,343,145 - 1,343,145 Other Steel Products - 1,590,240 - 1,590,240 - 3,886,962 - 3,886,962 Raw Materials - - 706,811 706,811 - - 1,943,267 1,943,267 $ 6,862,133 $ 2,744,279 $ 706,811 $ 10,313,223 $ 17,380,819 $ 6,795,441 $ 1,943,267 $ 26,119,527 Three Months (13 Weeks) Ended October 3, 2020 Nine Months (39 Weeks) Ended October 3, 2020 Steel Mills Steel Products Raw Materials Total Steel Mills Steel Products Raw Materials Total Sheet $ 1,256,537 $ - $ - $ 1,256,537 $ 3,899,970 $ - $ - $ 3,899,970 Bar 957,216 - - 957,216 2,830,936 - - 2,830,936 Structural 362,192 - - 362,192 1,159,949 - - 1,159,949 Plate 266,680 - - 266,680 985,001 - - 985,001 Tubular Products - 274,915 - 274,915 - 830,283 - 830,283 Rebar Fabrication - 463,286 - 463,286 - 1,300,518 - 1,300,518 Other Steel Products - 999,803 - 999,803 - 2,857,225 - 2,857,225 Raw Materials - - 347,331 347,331 - - 1,015,721 1,015,721 $ 2,842,625 $ 1,738,004 $ 347,331 $ 4,927,960 $ 8,875,856 $ 4,988,026 $ 1,015,721 $ 14,879,603

Earnings Per Share (Tables)

Earnings Per Share (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Oct. 02, 2021
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Computations of Basic and Diluted Net Earnings Per Share	The computations of basic and diluted net earnings per share for the third quarter and first nine months of 2021 and 2020 are as follows (in thousands, except per share amounts): Three Months (13 Weeks) Ended Nine Months (39 Weeks) Ended Oct. 2, 2021 Oct. 3, 2020 Oct. 2, 2021 Oct. 3, 2020 Basic net earnings per share: Basic net earnings $ 2,127,743 $ 193,415 $ 4,577,043 $ 322,627 Earnings allocated to participating securities (9,442 ) (1,201 ) (22,272 ) (2,182 ) Net earnings available to common stockholders $ 2,118,301 $ 192,214 $ 4,554,771 $ 320,445 Basic average shares outstanding 290,510 303,394 296,431 303,072 Basic net earnings per share $ 7.29 $ 0.63 $ 15.37 $ 1.06 Diluted net earnings per share: Diluted net earnings $ 2,127,743 $ 193,415 $ 4,577,043 $ 322,627 Earnings allocated to participating securities (9,401 ) (1,202 ) (22,194 ) (2,182 ) Net earnings available to common stockholders $ 2,118,342 $ 192,213 $ 4,554,849 $ 320,445 Diluted average shares outstanding: Basic average shares outstanding 290,510 303,394 296,431 303,072 Dilutive effect of stock options and other 642 47 497 27 291,152 303,441 296,928 303,099 Diluted net earnings per share $ 7.28 $ 0.63 $ 15.34 $ 1.06
Anti-dilutive Stock Options	The following stock options were excluded from the computation of diluted net earnings per share for the third quarter and first nine months of 2021 and 2020 because their effect would have been anti-dilutive (shares in thousands): Three Months (13 Weeks) Ended Nine Months (39 Weeks) Ended Oct. 2, 2021 Oct. 3, 2020 Oct. 2, 2021 Oct. 3, 2020 Anti-dilutive stock options: Weighted-average shares 52 3,463 119 3,638 Weighted-average exercise price $ 110.74 $ 51.38 $ 78.91 $ 51.15

Acquisitions (Tables)

Acquisitions (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Oct. 02, 2021
Cornerstone Building Brands, Inc., Insulated Metal Panels ("IMP") [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Summary of Fair Values of Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed	The following table summarizes the fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed of the IMP business as of the date of acquisition (in thousands): Cash $ — Accounts receivable 49,869 Inventory 73,000 Other current assets 4,478 Property, plant and equipment 102,966 Goodwill 454,549 Other intangible assets 378,300 Other assets 13,515 Total assets acquired 1,076,677 Current liabilities 45,320 Other liabilities 12,855 Total liabilities assumed 58,175 Net assets acquired $ 1,018,502
Summary of Purchase Price Allocation to Identifiable Intangible Assets	The following table summarizes the purchase price allocation to the identifiable intangible assets of the IMP business as of the date of acquisition (in thousands, except years): Weighted- Average Life Customer relationships $ 309,000 10 years Trademarks and trade names 45,000 10 years Backlog 24,300 1 year $ 378,300
Hannibal Industries Inc [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Summary of Fair Values of Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed	The following table summarizes the fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed of Hannibal as of the date of acquisition (in thousands): Cash $ 125,628 Accounts receivable 115,728 Inventory 65,005 Other current assets 1,050 Property, plant and equipment 116,955 Goodwill 80,550 Other intangible assets 201,700 Other assets 8,776 Total assets acquired 715,392 Current liabilities 231,356 Finance lease obligations 80,124 Other liabilities 10,655 Total liabilities assumed 322,135 Net assets acquired $ 393,257
Summary of Purchase Price Allocation to Identifiable Intangible Assets	The following table summarizes the purchase price allocation to the identifiable intangible assets of Hannibal as of the date of acquisition (in thousands, except years): Weighted- Average Life Customer relationships $ 144,000 10 years Trademarks and trade names 26,000 7 years Backlog 31,700 1 year $ 201,700

Inventories - Additional Inform

Inventories - Additional Information (Detail)	Oct. 02, 2021	Dec. 31, 2020
Inventory Disclosure [Abstract]
Raw materials and supplies in inventory, percentage	44.00%	42.00%
Finished and semi-finished products in inventory, percentage	56.00%	58.00%

Property, Plant and Equipment -

Property, Plant and Equipment - Additional Information (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Jul. 03, 2021	Oct. 03, 2020	Oct. 02, 2021	Oct. 03, 2020	Dec. 31, 2020
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Accumulated depreciation			$ 10,330,000		$ 9,860,000
Property, plant and equipment, net			7,777,277		6,899,110
Losses on assets		$ 6,604	50,970	$ 299,450
Carrying Value of Three Groups of Wells [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, net			$ 66,700		$ 71,700
Unproved Oil and Natural Gas Properties [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Ownership percentage of leasehold interest in unproved oil and natural gas properties			49.00%
Unproved Oil and Gas Properties [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, net			$ 96,000
Unproved Oil and Gas Properties [Member] | Losses on Assets [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Losses on assets	$ 42,000		$ 42,000

Goodwill and Other Intangible_3

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets - Schedule of Change in Net Carrying Amount of Goodwill by Segment (Detail) $ in Thousands	9 Months Ended
	Oct. 02, 2021USD ($)
Goodwill [Line Items]
Balance, beginning of period	$ 2,229,672
Acquisitions	556,268
Other	(129)
Translation	2,181
Balance, end of period	2,787,992
Steel Mills [Member]
Goodwill [Line Items]
Balance, beginning of period	612,470
Acquisitions	705
Balance, end of period	613,175
Steel Products [Member]
Goodwill [Line Items]
Balance, beginning of period	887,625
Acquisitions	535,099
Other	(129)
Translation	2,181
Balance, end of period	1,424,776
Raw Materials [Member]
Goodwill [Line Items]
Balance, beginning of period	729,577
Acquisitions	20,464
Balance, end of period	$ 750,041

Goodwill and Other Intangible_4

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets - Additional Information (Detail) - USD ($)	3 Months Ended			9 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
	Oct. 02, 2021	Dec. 31, 2020	Oct. 03, 2020	Oct. 02, 2021	Oct. 03, 2020	Dec. 31, 2020
Finite And Indefinite Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Impairment of goodwill		$ 0
Goodwill	$ 2,787,992,000	2,229,672,000		$ 2,787,992,000		$ 2,229,672,000
Finite-lived intangible assets	1,171,292,000	668,021,000		1,171,292,000		$ 668,021,000
Intangible asset amortization expense	34,800,000		$ 20,700,000	76,700,000	$ 62,900,000
Future amortization expense, in 2021	124,100,000			124,100,000
Future amortization expense, in 2022	169,900,000			169,900,000
Future amortization expense, in 2023	133,900,000			133,900,000
Future amortization expense, in 2024	133,100,000			133,100,000
Future amortization expense, in 2025	132,200,000			$ 132,200,000
Minimum [Member]
Finite And Indefinite Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Intangible assets, useful life				5 years
Maximum [Member]
Finite And Indefinite Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Intangible assets, useful life				22 years
Rebar Fabrication [Member]
Finite And Indefinite Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Percentage of fair value exceeded carrying value						99.00%
Goodwill	366,200,000	364,300,000		$ 366,200,000		$ 364,300,000
Finite-lived intangible assets	52,200,000	58,800,000		52,200,000		$ 58,800,000
Grating unit [Member]
Finite And Indefinite Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Percentage of fair value exceeded carrying value						88.00%
Goodwill	$ 37,100,000	$ 37,000,000		$ 37,100,000		$ 37,000,000

Goodwill and Other Intangible_5

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets - Schedule of Intangible Assets (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Oct. 02, 2021	Dec. 31, 2020
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Intangible assets, Gross Amount	$ 2,228,076	$ 1,648,149
Intangible assets, Accumulated Amortization	1,056,784	980,128
Customer Relationships [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Intangible assets, Gross Amount	1,874,831	1,421,962
Intangible assets, Accumulated Amortization	897,952	838,443
Trademarks and Trade Names [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Intangible assets, Gross Amount	233,423	162,365
Intangible assets, Accumulated Amortization	106,928	100,000
Other [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Intangible assets, Gross Amount	119,822	63,822
Intangible assets, Accumulated Amortization	$ 51,904	$ 41,685

Current Liabilities - Additiona

Current Liabilities - Additional Information (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Oct. 02, 2021	Dec. 31, 2020
Liabilities Current [Abstract]
Book overdrafts	$ 147.8	$ 210.5
Dividends payable, current	$ 116.9	$ 123.9

Fair Value Measurements - Sched

Fair Value Measurements - Schedule of Financial Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Oct. 02, 2021	Dec. 31, 2020
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Short-term investments	$ 247,247	$ 408,004
Total assets	24,949,479	20,125,394
Reported Value Measurement [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Cash equivalents	1,111,994	2,186,820
Short-term investments	247,247	408,004
Restricted cash and cash equivalents	281,345	115,258
Derivative contracts, assets	31,257
Total assets	1,671,843	2,710,082
Derivative contracts, liabilities	(4,133)	(14,361)
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Cash equivalents	1,111,994	2,186,820
Short-term investments	247,247	408,004
Restricted cash and cash equivalents	281,345	115,258
Total assets	1,640,586	2,710,082
Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Derivative contracts, assets	31,257
Total assets	31,257
Derivative contracts, liabilities	$ (4,133)	$ (14,361)

Fair Value Measurements - Addit

Fair Value Measurements - Additional Information (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Oct. 02, 2021	Dec. 31, 2020
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair value of short-term and long-term debt, including current maturities	$ 6,090	$ 6,050

Contingencies - Additional Info

Contingencies - Additional Information (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Oct. 02, 2021	Dec. 31, 2020
Commitments And Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Accrual for environmental loss contingencies, gross	$ 14.2	$ 16
Accrued environmental loss contingencies, current	2.9	5.6
Accrued environmental loss contingencies, noncurrent	$ 11.3	$ 10.4

Stock-Based Compensation - Addi

Stock-Based Compensation - Additional Information (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Oct. 02, 2021	Oct. 03, 2020	Oct. 02, 2021	Oct. 03, 2020	May 14, 2020
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Stock options exercise prices as percentage of the market value on the date of the grant			100.00%
Compensation expenses for stock options	$ 0.5	$ 0.3	$ 3.4	$ 2.4
Stock Options [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Stock options vesting period			3 years
Stock options term, years			10 years
Unrecognized compensation expense related to stock	3.5		$ 3.5
Weighted-average recognition period for unrecognized compensation expense related to stock (years)			2 years 2 months 12 days
Restricted Stock Units [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Unrecognized compensation expense related to stock	53.2		$ 53.2
Weighted-average recognition period for unrecognized compensation expense related to stock (years)			1 year 3 months 18 days
Compensation expense	$ 10.4	11.1	$ 42.4	47.9
Omnibus Plan [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Stock based compensation, common stock available for grant	7,000,000		7,000,000
Omnibus Plan [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Stock based compensation, common stock available for grant					19,000,000
Inactive Plans [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Shares reserved for future issuance	500,000		500,000
LTIP [Member] | Restricted Stock Units [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Eligible age of officer for restricted stock award			55 years
AIP [Member] | Restricted Stock Units [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Eligible age of officer for restricted stock award			55 years
Additional common stock units for election of deferred annual incentive award, percentage			25.00%
AIP and LTIP [Member] | Restricted Stock And Restricted Stock Units Member
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Unrecognized compensation expense related to stock	$ 1.7		$ 1.7
Weighted-average recognition period for unrecognized compensation expense related to stock (years)			1 year 9 months 18 days
Compensation expense	$ 20.1	$ 3.3	$ 51.9	$ 5.8

Stock-Based Compensation - Sche

Stock-Based Compensation - Schedule of Stock Option Plans Activity (Detail) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	9 Months Ended
	Oct. 02, 2021
Disclosure Of Compensation Related Costs Sharebased Payments [Abstract]
Outstanding at beginning of year, Shares	3,916
Granted, Shares	138
Exercised, Shares	(2,839)
Outstanding at end of year, Shares	1,215
Options exercisable at end of year, Shares	552
Outstanding at beginning of year, Weighted - Average Exercise Price	$ 50.03
Granted, Weighted - Average Exercise Price	110.74
Exercised, Weighted - Average Exercise Price	50.68
Outstanding at end of period, Weighted - Average Exercise Price	55.40
Options exercisable at end of year, Weighted - Average Exercise Price	$ 54.36
Outstanding, Weighted - Average Remaining Contractual Life	6 years 9 months 18 days
Stock options exercisable, Weighted - Average Remaining Contractual Life	4 years 8 months 12 days
Exercised, Aggregate Intrinsic Value	$ 65,859
Outstanding at end of year, Aggregate Intrinsic Value	53,125
Stock options exercisable, Aggregate Intrinsic Value	$ 24,083

Stock-Based Compensation - Summ

Stock-Based Compensation - Summary of Nucor's RSU Activity (Detail) - Restricted Stock Units [Member] shares in Thousands	9 Months Ended
	Oct. 02, 2021$ / sharesshares
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Unvested at beginning of year, Shares | shares	1,830
Granted, Shares | shares	397
Vested, Shares | shares	(918)
Canceled, Shares | shares	(58)
Unvested at end of year, Shares | shares	1,251
Unvested at beginning of year, Grant Date Fair Value | $ / shares	$ 47.33
Granted, Grant Date Fair Value | $ / shares	110.74
Vested, Grant Date Fair Value | $ / shares	57.41
Canceled, Grant Date Fair Value | $ / shares	48.67
Unvested at end of year, Grant Date Fair Value | $ / shares	$ 60

Stock-Based Compensation - Su_2

Stock-Based Compensation - Summary of Nucor's Restricted Stock Activity under AIP and LTIP (Detail) - Restricted Stock Units and Restricted Stock Awards [Member] shares in Thousands	9 Months Ended
	Oct. 02, 2021$ / sharesshares
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Unvested at beginning of year, Shares | shares	127
Granted, Shares | shares	262
Vested, Shares | shares	(243)
Canceled, Shares | shares	(9)
Unvested at end of year, Shares | shares	137
Unvested at beginning of year, Grant Date Fair Value | $ / shares	$ 49.94
Granted, Grant Date Fair Value | $ / shares	65.61
Vested, Grant Date Fair Value | $ / shares	62.92
Canceled, Grant Date Fair Value | $ / shares	48.75
Unvested at end of year, Grant Date Fair Value | $ / shares	$ 56.93

Employee Benefit Plan - Additio

Employee Benefit Plan - Additional Information (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Oct. 02, 2021	Oct. 03, 2020	Oct. 02, 2021	Oct. 03, 2020
Employee Benefit Plan [Abstract]
Profit Sharing and Retirement Savings Plan, plan expense	$ 274.9	$ 27.5	$ 596.2	$ 59.5

Interest Expense (Income) - Sch

Interest Expense (Income) - Schedule of Components of Net Interest Expense (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Oct. 02, 2021	Oct. 03, 2020	Oct. 02, 2021	Oct. 03, 2020
Interest Revenue Or Expense Net [Abstract]
Interest expense	$ 43,908	$ 42,281	$ 122,539	$ 128,726
Interest income	(623)	(2,142)	(3,830)	(11,870)
Interest expense, net	$ 43,285	$ 40,139	$ 118,709	$ 116,856

Income Taxes - Additional Infor

Income Taxes - Additional Information (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended
	Oct. 02, 2021	Oct. 03, 2020	Dec. 31, 2020
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Effective income tax rate	22.50%	23.30%
Non-current deferred tax liabilities included in deferred credits and other liabilities	$ 771.4		$ 596.4

Stockholders' Equity - Addition

Stockholders' Equity - Additional Information (Detail) - USD ($)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Oct. 02, 2021	Oct. 03, 2020	Oct. 02, 2021	Oct. 03, 2020	May 13, 2021
Dividends declared per share	$ 0.405	$ 0.4025	$ 1.215	$ 1.2075
Common Stock [Member]
Share repurchase program, available repurchase amount	$ 1,940,000,000		$ 1,940,000,000
Common Stock [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Stock Repurchase Program, Authorized Amount					$ 3,000,000,000
Nucor-Yamato Steel Company [Member]
Noncontrolling interest, ownership percentage by parent	51.00%	51.00%	51.00%	51.00%

Stockholders' Equity - Schedule

Stockholders' Equity - Schedule of Change in Stockholder's Equity (Detail) - USD ($) shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Oct. 02, 2021	Oct. 03, 2020	Oct. 02, 2021	Oct. 03, 2020
BALANCES, beginning of period	$ 12,709,651	$ 10,623,485	$ 11,231,861	$ 10,791,176
Net earnings	2,223,265	222,630	4,782,238	410,162
Other comprehensive income (loss)	(12,172)	25,367	32,960	(12,503)
Stock options exercised	15,075		$ 143,874
Stock options exercised (in shares)			2,839
Stock option expense	458	263	$ 3,367	2,402
Issuance of stock under award plans, net of forfeitures	11,629	11,189	8,893	38,996
Amortization of unearned compensation	400	400	1,200	1,300
Treasury stock value acquired	(857,703)		(1,773,848)	(39,499)
Cash dividends declared	(116,888)	(123,039)	(359,634)	(368,774)
Distributions to noncontrolling interests	(23,423)	(43,228)	(120,619)	(106,193)
BALANCES, end of period	13,950,292	10,717,067	13,950,292	10,717,067
Common Stock [Member]
BALANCES, beginning of period	$ 152,061	$ 152,061	$ 152,061	$ 152,061
BALANCES, shares at beginning of period	380,154	380,154	380,154	380,154
BALANCES, end of period	$ 152,061	$ 152,061	$ 152,061	$ 152,061
BALANCES, shares at end of period	380,154	380,154	380,154	380,154
Additional Paid-in Capital [Member]
BALANCES, beginning of period	$ 2,117,155	$ 2,106,907	$ 2,121,288	$ 2,107,646
Stock options exercised	2,699		38,523
Stock option expense	458	263	3,367	2,402
Issuance of stock under award plans, net of forfeitures	10,802	10,012	(32,864)	6,234
Amortization of unearned compensation	400	400	1,200	1,300
BALANCES, end of period	2,131,514	2,117,582	2,131,514	2,117,582
Retained Earnings [Member]
BALANCES, beginning of period	13,550,406	10,998,533	11,343,852	11,115,056
Net earnings	2,127,743	193,415	4,577,043	322,627
Cash dividends declared	(116,888)	(123,039)	(359,634)	(368,774)
Other		(1)		(1)
BALANCES, end of period	15,561,261	11,068,908	15,561,261	11,068,908
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member]
BALANCES, beginning of period	(73,729)	(340,836)	(118,861)	(302,966)
Other comprehensive income (loss)	(12,172)	25,367	32,960	(12,503)
BALANCES, end of period	(85,901)	(315,469)	(85,901)	(315,469)
Treasury Stock (at cost) [Member]
BALANCES, beginning of period	$ (3,491,915)	$ (2,721,845)	$ (2,709,675)	$ (2,713,931)
BALANCES, shares at beginning of period	86,459	78,259	77,909	78,342
Stock options exercised	$ 12,376		$ 105,351
Stock options exercised (in shares)	(285)		(2,839)
Issuance of stock under award plans, net of forfeitures	$ 827	$ 1,177	$ 41,757	$ 32,762
Issuance of stock under award plans, net of forfeitures, shares	(19)	(34)	(1,060)	(942)
Treasury stock value acquired	$ (857,703)		$ (1,773,848)	$ (39,499)
Treasury stock acquired (in shares)	8,200		20,345	825
BALANCES, end of period	$ (4,336,415)	$ (2,720,668)	$ (4,336,415)	$ (2,720,668)
BALANCES, shares at end of period	94,355	78,225	94,355	78,225
Total Nucor Stockholders' Equity [Member]
BALANCES, beginning of period	$ 12,253,978	$ 10,194,820	$ 10,788,665	$ 10,357,866
Net earnings	2,127,743	193,415	4,577,043	322,627
Other comprehensive income (loss)	(12,172)	25,367	32,960	(12,503)
Stock options exercised	15,075		143,874
Stock option expense	458	263	3,367	2,402
Issuance of stock under award plans, net of forfeitures	11,629	11,189	8,893	38,996
Amortization of unearned compensation	400	400	1,200	1,300
Treasury stock value acquired	(857,703)		(1,773,848)	(39,499)
Cash dividends declared	(116,888)	(123,039)	(359,634)	(368,774)
Other		(1)		(1)
BALANCES, end of period	13,422,520	10,302,414	13,422,520	10,302,414
Noncontrolling Interests [Member]
BALANCES, beginning of period	455,673	428,665	443,196	433,310
Net earnings	95,522	29,215	205,195	87,535
Distributions to noncontrolling interests	(23,423)	(43,228)	(120,619)	(106,193)
Other		1		1
BALANCES, end of period	$ 527,772	$ 414,653	$ 527,772	$ 414,653

Accumulated Other Comprehensi_3

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) - Components of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended				9 Months Ended
	Oct. 02, 2021		Oct. 03, 2020		Oct. 02, 2021		Oct. 03, 2020
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss Net Of Tax [Abstract]
Beginning Balance, Gains and (Losses) on Hedging Derivatives	$ 5,200		$ (10,900)		$ (4,700)		$ (14,000)
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications, Gains and (Losses) on Hedging Derivatives	19,057		6,387		28,260		4,888
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income into earnings, Gains and (Losses) on Hedging Derivatives	(2,457)	[1]	2,113	[2]	(1,760)	[1]	6,712	[2]
Net current-period other comprehensive income (loss), Gains and (Losses) on Hedging Derivatives	16,600		8,500		26,500		11,600
Ending Balance, Gains and (Losses) on Hedging Derivatives	21,800		(2,400)		21,800		(2,400)
Beginning Balance, Foreign Currency Gains (Loss)	(85,595)		(337,743)		(120,827)		(296,773)
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications, Foreign Currency Gains (Loss)	(28,772)		16,867		6,460		(24,103)
Net current-period other comprehensive income (loss), Foreign Currency Gains (Loss)	(28,772)		16,867		6,460		(24,103)
Ending Balance, Foreign Currency Gains (Loss)	(114,367)		(320,876)		(114,367)		(320,876)
Beginning Balance, Adjustment to Early Retiree Medical Plan	6,666		7,807		6,666		7,807
Ending Balance, Adjustment to Early Retiree Medical Plan	6,666		7,807		6,666		7,807
Beginning Balance	(73,729)		(340,836)		(118,861)		(302,966)
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications	(9,715)		23,254		34,720		(19,215)
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) into earnings	(2,457)	[1]	2,113	[2]	(1,760)	[1]	6,712	[2]
Net current-period other comprehensive income (loss)	(12,172)		25,367		32,960		(12,503)
Ending Balance	$ (85,901)		$ (315,469)		$ (85,901)		$ (315,469)
[1]	Includes $(2,457) and $(1,760) of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) reclassifications into cost of products sold for net losses on commodity contracts in the third quarter and first nine months of 2021, respectively. The tax impact of those reclassifications was $(800) and $(700) in the third quarter and first nine months of 2021, respectively.
[2]	Includes $2,113 and $6,712 of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) reclassifications into cost of products sold for net losses on commodity contracts in the third quarter and first nine months of 2020, respectively. The tax impact of those reclassifications was $700 and $2,300 in the third quarter and first nine months of 2020, respectively.

Accumulated Other Comprehensi_4

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) - Components of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Parenthetical) (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended				9 Months Ended
	Oct. 02, 2021		Oct. 03, 2020		Oct. 02, 2021		Oct. 03, 2020
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income into earnings, Gains and (Losses) on Hedging Derivatives	$ (2,457)	[1]	$ 2,113	[2]	$ (1,760)	[1]	$ 6,712	[2]
AOCI reclassification impact on tax	(800)		700		(700)		2,300
Cost of Products Sold [Member]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income into earnings, Gains and (Losses) on Hedging Derivatives	(2,457)		2,113		(1,760)		6,712
AOCI reclassification impact on tax	$ (800)		$ 700		$ (700)		$ 2,300
[1]	Includes $(2,457) and $(1,760) of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) reclassifications into cost of products sold for net losses on commodity contracts in the third quarter and first nine months of 2021, respectively. The tax impact of those reclassifications was $(800) and $(700) in the third quarter and first nine months of 2021, respectively.
[2]	Includes $2,113 and $6,712 of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) reclassifications into cost of products sold for net losses on commodity contracts in the third quarter and first nine months of 2020, respectively. The tax impact of those reclassifications was $700 and $2,300 in the third quarter and first nine months of 2020, respectively.

Segments - Segments (Detail)

Segments - Segments (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Oct. 02, 2021	Oct. 03, 2020	Oct. 02, 2021	Oct. 03, 2020	Dec. 31, 2020
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales	$ 10,313,223	$ 4,927,960	$ 26,119,527	$ 14,879,603
Earnings (losses) before income taxes and noncontrolling interests	2,869,107	290,418	6,193,101	617,772
Total assets	24,949,479		24,949,479		$ 20,125,394
Operating Segments [Member] | Steel Mills [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales	6,862,133	2,842,625	17,380,819	8,875,856
Earnings (losses) before income taxes and noncontrolling interests	3,116,539	205,152	6,606,320	512,082
Total assets	12,800,019		12,800,019		9,708,260
Operating Segments [Member] | Steel Products [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales	2,744,279	1,738,004	6,795,441	4,988,026
Earnings (losses) before income taxes and noncontrolling interests	368,595	186,976	839,737	502,409
Total assets	7,667,192		7,667,192		4,461,042
Operating Segments [Member] | Raw Materials [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales	706,811	347,331	1,943,267	1,015,721
Earnings (losses) before income taxes and noncontrolling interests	161,870	6,232	505,248	(3,068)
Total assets	3,788,291		3,788,291		3,324,489
Intercompany Eliminations [Member] | Steel Mills [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales	1,840,007	731,942	4,561,418	2,264,278
Intercompany Eliminations [Member] | Steel Products [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales	93,910	51,029	245,523	197,603
Intercompany Eliminations [Member] | Raw Materials [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales	4,355,702	1,863,796	12,011,705	5,772,583
Corporate and Eliminations Items [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales	(6,289,619)	(2,646,767)	(16,818,646)	(8,234,464)
Earnings (losses) before income taxes and noncontrolling interests	(777,897)	$ (107,942)	(1,758,204)	$ (393,651)
Total assets	$ 693,977		$ 693,977		$ 2,631,603

Revenue - Schedule of Net Sales

Revenue - Schedule of Net Sales Disaggregates by Major Source (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Oct. 02, 2021	Oct. 03, 2020	Oct. 02, 2021	Oct. 03, 2020
Revenue from Contract with Customers [Line Items]
Revenues	$ 10,313,223	$ 4,927,960	$ 26,119,527	$ 14,879,603
Sheet [Member]
Revenue from Contract with Customers [Line Items]
Revenues	3,643,599	1,256,537	9,099,358	3,899,970
Bar [Member]
Revenue from Contract with Customers [Line Items]
Revenues	1,633,641	957,216	4,409,798	2,830,936
Structural [Member]
Revenue from Contract with Customers [Line Items]
Revenues	765,440	362,192	1,862,176	1,159,949
Plate [Member]
Revenue from Contract with Customers [Line Items]
Revenues	819,453	266,680	2,009,487	985,001
Tubular Products [Member]
Revenue from Contract with Customers [Line Items]
Revenues	678,178	274,915	1,565,334	830,283
Rebar Fabrication [Member]
Revenue from Contract with Customers [Line Items]
Revenues	475,861	463,286	1,343,145	1,300,518
Other Steel Products [Member]
Revenue from Contract with Customers [Line Items]
Revenues	1,590,240	999,803	3,886,962	2,857,225
Raw Materials [Member]
Revenue from Contract with Customers [Line Items]
Revenues	706,811	347,331	1,943,267	1,015,721
Steel Mills [Member]
Revenue from Contract with Customers [Line Items]
Revenues	6,862,133	2,842,625	17,380,819	8,875,856
Steel Mills [Member] | Sheet [Member]
Revenue from Contract with Customers [Line Items]
Revenues	3,643,599	1,256,537	9,099,358	3,899,970
Steel Mills [Member] | Bar [Member]
Revenue from Contract with Customers [Line Items]
Revenues	1,633,641	957,216	4,409,798	2,830,936
Steel Mills [Member] | Structural [Member]
Revenue from Contract with Customers [Line Items]
Revenues	765,440	362,192	1,862,176	1,159,949
Steel Mills [Member] | Plate [Member]
Revenue from Contract with Customers [Line Items]
Revenues	819,453	266,680	2,009,487	985,001
Steel Products [Member]
Revenue from Contract with Customers [Line Items]
Revenues	2,744,279	1,738,004	6,795,441	4,988,026
Steel Products [Member] | Tubular Products [Member]
Revenue from Contract with Customers [Line Items]
Revenues	678,178	274,915	1,565,334	830,283
Steel Products [Member] | Rebar Fabrication [Member]
Revenue from Contract with Customers [Line Items]
Revenues	475,861	463,286	1,343,145	1,300,518
Steel Products [Member] | Other Steel Products [Member]
Revenue from Contract with Customers [Line Items]
Revenues	1,590,240	999,803	3,886,962	2,857,225
Raw Materials [Member]
Revenue from Contract with Customers [Line Items]
Revenues	706,811	347,331	1,943,267	1,015,721
Raw Materials [Member] | Raw Materials [Member]
Revenue from Contract with Customers [Line Items]
Revenues	$ 706,811	$ 347,331	$ 1,943,267	$ 1,015,721

Revenue - Additional Informatio

Revenue - Additional Information (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Oct. 02, 2021	Dec. 31, 2020
Revenue From Contract With Customer [Abstract]
Contract liabilities	$ 232.3	$ 120.2

Earnings Per Share - Computatio

Earnings Per Share - Computations of Basic and Diluted Net Earnings Per Share (Detail) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Oct. 02, 2021	Oct. 03, 2020	Oct. 02, 2021	Oct. 03, 2020
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Basic net earnings	$ 2,127,743	$ 193,415	$ 4,577,043	$ 322,627
Earnings allocated to participating securities, Basic	(9,442)	(1,201)	(22,272)	(2,182)
Net earnings available to common stockholders, Basic	$ 2,118,301	$ 192,214	$ 4,554,771	$ 320,445
Basic average shares outstanding	290,510	303,394	296,431	303,072
Basic net earnings per share	$ 7.29	$ 0.63	$ 15.37	$ 1.06
Diluted net earnings	$ 2,127,743	$ 193,415	$ 4,577,043	$ 322,627
Earnings allocated to participating securities, Diluted	(9,401)	(1,202)	(22,194)	(2,182)
Net earnings available to common stockholders, Diluted	$ 2,118,342	$ 192,213	$ 4,554,849	$ 320,445
Dilutive effect of stock options and other	642	47	497	27
Diluted average shares outstanding	291,152	303,441	296,928	303,099
Diluted net earnings per share	$ 7.28	$ 0.63	$ 15.34	$ 1.06

Earnings Per Share - Anti-dilut

Earnings Per Share - Anti-dilutive Stock Options (Detail) - $ / shares shares in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Oct. 02, 2021	Oct. 03, 2020	Oct. 02, 2021	Oct. 03, 2020
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Weighted-average shares	52	3,463	119	3,638
Weighted-average exercise price	$ 110.74	$ 51.38	$ 78.91	$ 51.15

Acquisitions - Additional Infor

Acquisitions - Additional Information (Details) $ in Thousands	Aug. 20, 2021USD ($)DistributionCenter	Aug. 09, 2021USD ($)FacilityBrand	Oct. 02, 2021USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2020USD ($)
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Goodwill			$ 2,787,992	$ 2,229,672
Cornerstone Building Brands, Inc., Insulated Metal Panels ("IMP") [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Business acquisition, purchase price		$ 1,000,000
Business acquisition number of leading brands | Brand		2
Goodwill		$ 454,549
Cornerstone Building Brands, Inc., Insulated Metal Panels ("IMP") [Member] | North America [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Business acquisition, Number of facilities | Facility		7
Hannibal Industries Inc [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Business acquisition, purchase price	$ 370,000
Goodwill	$ 80,550
Number of distribution centers | DistributionCenter	3
Hannibal Industries Inc [Member] | Employee Stock Ownership Plan [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Percent of outstanding shares acquired	100.00%

Acquisitions - Summary of Fair

Acquisitions - Summary of Fair Values of Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Oct. 02, 2021	Aug. 20, 2021	Aug. 09, 2021	Dec. 31, 2020
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Goodwill	$ 2,787,992			$ 2,229,672
Cornerstone Building Brands, Inc., Insulated Metal Panels ("IMP") [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Accounts receivable			$ 49,869
Inventory			73,000
Other current assets			4,478
Property, plant and equipment			102,966
Goodwill			454,549
Other intangible assets			378,300
Other assets			13,515
Total assets acquired			1,076,677
Current liabilities			45,320
Other liabilities			12,855
Total liabilities assumed			58,175
Net assets acquired			$ 1,018,502
Hannibal Industries Inc [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Cash		$ 125,628
Accounts receivable		115,728
Inventory		65,005
Other current assets		1,050
Property, plant and equipment		116,955
Goodwill		80,550
Other intangible assets		201,700
Other assets		8,776
Total assets acquired		715,392
Current liabilities		231,356
Finance lease obligations		80,124
Other liabilities		10,655
Total liabilities assumed		322,135
Net assets acquired		$ 393,257

Acquisitions - Summary of Purch

Acquisitions - Summary of Purchase Price Allocation to Identifiable Intangible Assets (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Aug. 20, 2021	Aug. 09, 2021
Cornerstone Building Brands, Inc., Insulated Metal Panels ("IMP") [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Other intangible assets		$ 378,300
Cornerstone Building Brands, Inc., Insulated Metal Panels ("IMP") [Member] | Customer Relationships [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Other intangible assets		$ 309,000
Weighted-Average Life		10 years
Cornerstone Building Brands, Inc., Insulated Metal Panels ("IMP") [Member] | Trademarks and Trade Names [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Other intangible assets		$ 45,000
Weighted-Average Life		10 years
Cornerstone Building Brands, Inc., Insulated Metal Panels ("IMP") [Member] | Backlog [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Other intangible assets		$ 24,300
Weighted-Average Life		1 year
Hannibal Industries Inc [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Other intangible assets	$ 201,700
Hannibal Industries Inc [Member] | Customer Relationships [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Other intangible assets	$ 144,000
Weighted-Average Life	10 years
Hannibal Industries Inc [Member] | Trademarks and Trade Names [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Other intangible assets	$ 26,000
Weighted-Average Life	7 years
Hannibal Industries Inc [Member] | Backlog [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Other intangible assets	$ 31,700
Weighted-Average Life	1 year

Subsequent Events - Additional

Subsequent Events - Additional Information (Details) - Subsequent Event [Member] $ in Millions	Nov. 05, 2021USD ($)
2.979% Notes due 2055 [Member]
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Debt instrument interest rate	2.979%
Previous Revolver Credit Facility [Member]
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Borrowing capacity	$ 1,500
Amended and Restated Revolver Credit Facility [Member]
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Borrowing capacity	$ 1,750
Maturity date	Nov. 5, 2026