| Cover | May 22, 2020 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Document Period End Date | May 22, 2020 |
| Entity File Number | 1-9533 |
| Entity Registrant Name | WORLD FUEL SERVICES CORPORATION |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000789460 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 59-2459427 |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | FL |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 9800 N.W. 41st Street |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Miami |
| Entity Address, State or Province | FL |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 33178 |
| City Area Code | 305 |
| Local Phone Number | 428-8000 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Title of 12(b) Security | Common Stock, par value $0.01 per share |
| Trading Symbol | INT |
| Security Exchange Name | NYSE |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
