| Document and Entity Information | Jan. 25, 2024 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Jan. 25, 2024 |
| Entity Registrant Name | FORWARD AIR CORPORATION |
| Entity Incorporation State Country Code | TN |
| Entity File Number | 000-22490 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 62-1120025 |
| Entity Address Address Line 1 | 1915 Snapps Ferry Road |
| Entity Address Address Line 2 | Building N |
| Entity Address City Or Town | Greeneville |
| Entity Address State Or Province | TN |
| Entity Address Postal Zip Code | 37745 |
| City Area Code | 423 |
| Local Phone Number | 636-7000 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre Commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre Commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Security 12b Title | Common Stock, $0.01 par value |
| Trading Symbol | FWRD |
| Security Exchange Name | NASDAQ |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
| Current Fiscal Year End Date | --12-31 |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000912728 |
