| Document and Entity Information | Sep. 09, 2019 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Entity Registrant Name | SANDERSON FARMS INC |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000812128 |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Sep. 9, 2019 |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | MS |
| Entity File Number | 1-14977 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 64-0615843 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 127 Flynt Road |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Laurel |
| Entity Address, State or Province | MS |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 39443 |
| City Area Code | 601 |
| Local Phone Number | 649-4030 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Title of 12(b) Security | Common stock, $1 par value per share |
| Trading Symbol | SAFM |
| Security Exchange Name | NASDAQ |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
