| Document and Entity Information | Nov. 03, 2020 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Nov. 3, 2020 |
| Entity Registrant Name | ARCBEST CORPORATION |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | DE |
| Entity File Number | 0-19969 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 71-0673405 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 8401 McClure Drive |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Fort Smith |
| Entity Address, State or Province | AR |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 72916 |
| City Area Code | 479 |
| Local Phone Number | 785-6000 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Title of 12(b) Security | Common Stock $0.01 Par Value |
| Trading Symbol | ARCB |
| Security Exchange Name | NASDAQ |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000894405 |
| Amendment Flag | false |
