| Document and Entity Information | Mar. 23, 2020 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Entity Registrant Name | SANDERSON FARMS INC |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000812128 |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Mar. 23, 2020 |
| Entity Incorporation State 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 |
| Security 12b Title | Common stock, $1 par value per share |
| Trading Symbol | SAFM |
| Security Exchange Name | NASDAQ |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
