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Berkshire Hathaway Inc – ‘10-K’ for 12/31/10 – ‘XML’

On:  Monday, 2/28/11, at 10:20am ET   ·   For:  12/31/10   ·   Accession #:  1193125-11-48914   ·   File #:  1-14905

Previous ‘10-K’:  ‘10-K’ on 3/1/10 for 12/31/09   ·   Next:  ‘10-K’ on 2/27/12 for 12/31/11   ·   Latest:  ‘10-K’ on 2/26/24 for 12/31/23   ·   2 References:   

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  As Of               Filer                 Filing    For·On·As Docs:Size             Issuer                      Filing Agent

 2/28/11  Berkshire Hathaway Inc            10-K       12/31/10  103:31M                                    Donnelley … Solutions/FA

Annual Report   —   Form 10-K   —   Sect. 13 / 15(d) – SEA’34
Filing Table of Contents

Document/Exhibit                   Description                      Pages   Size 

 1: 10-K        Annual Report                                       HTML   1.69M 
 3: EX-21       Subsidiaries List                                   HTML     65K 
 4: EX-23       Consent of Experts or Counsel                       HTML     28K 
 2: EX-12       Statement re: Computation of Ratios                 HTML     44K 
 5: EX-31.1     Certification -- §302 - SOA'02                      HTML     33K 
 6: EX-31.2     Certification -- §302 - SOA'02                      HTML     33K 
 7: EX-32.1     Certification -- §906 - SOA'02                      HTML     27K 
 8: EX-32.2     Certification -- §906 - SOA'02                      HTML     27K 
78: XML         IDEA XML File -- Definitions and References          XML    367K 
92: XML         IDEA XML File -- Filing Summary                      XML    355K 
87: XML.R1      Document and Entity Information                      XML    307K 
88: XML.R2      Consolidated Balance Sheets                          XML    758K 
48: XML.R3      Consolidated Statements of Earnings                  XML    855K 
56: XML.R4      Consolidated Statements of Earnings                  XML    260K 
                (Parenthetical)                                                  
76: XML.R5      Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows                XML    792K 
73: XML.R6      Consolidated Statements of Changes in                XML    474K 
                Shareholders' Equity                                             
98: XML.R7      Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income      XML    226K 
26: XML.R8      Significant accounting policies and practices        XML    119K 
72: XML.R9      Significant business acquisitions                    XML     89K 
22: XML.R10     Investments in fixed maturity securities             XML    185K 
21: XML.R11     Investments in equity securities                     XML    172K 
47: XML.R12     Other investments                                    XML    116K 
82: XML.R13     Investment gains and losses                          XML    100K 
49: XML.R14     Receivables                                          XML     85K 
52: XML.R15     Inventories                                          XML     68K 
67: XML.R16     Goodwill and other intangible assets                 XML    123K 
103: XML.R17     Property, plant and equipment                        XML    135K  
41: XML.R18     Derivative contracts                                 XML    143K 
15: XML.R19     Supplemental cash flow information                   XML     86K 
55: XML.R20     Unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses           XML    129K 
81: XML.R21     Notes payable and other borrowings                   XML    162K 
33: XML.R22     Income taxes                                         XML    188K 
77: XML.R23     Dividend restrictions - Insurance subsidiaries       XML     52K 
53: XML.R24     Fair value measurements                              XML    282K 
97: XML.R25     Common stock                                         XML     82K 
84: XML.R26     Pension plans                                        XML    252K 
59: XML.R27     Contingencies and Commitments                        XML     86K 
68: XML.R28     Business segment data                                XML    504K 
20: XML.R29     Quarterly Data                                       XML    106K 
24: XML.R30     Condensed Financial Information                      XML    245K 
35: XML.R31     Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)           XML    267K 
43: XML.R32     Significant Business Acquisitions (Table)            XML     90K 
66: XML.R33     Investments in fixed maturity securities (Table)     XML    188K 
83: XML.R34     Investments in equity securities (Table)             XML    168K 
18: XML.R35     Other investments (Table)                            XML    110K 
27: XML.R36     Investment gains and losses (Table)                  XML     97K 
89: XML.R37     Receivables (Table)                                  XML     87K 
96: XML.R38     Inventories (Table)                                  XML     66K 
60: XML.R39     Goodwill and other intangible assets (Table)         XML    127K 
100: XML.R40     Property, plant and equipment (Table)                XML    173K  
28: XML.R41     Derivative contracts (Table)                         XML    142K 
102: XML.R42     Supplemental cash flow information (Table)           XML     84K  
37: XML.R43     Unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses (Table)   XML    122K 
16: XML.R44     Notes payable and other borrowings (Table)           XML    235K 
36: XML.R45     Income taxes (Table)                                 XML    203K 
80: XML.R46     Fair value measurements (Table)                      XML    282K 
95: XML.R47     Common stock (Table)                                 XML     77K 
50: XML.R48     Pension plans (Table)                                XML    286K 
39: XML.R49     Business segment data (Table)                        XML    497K 
65: XML.R50     Quarterly data (Table)                               XML    104K 
19: XML.R51     Significant Accounting Policies (Detail)             XML    246K 
70: XML.R52     Significant Business Acquisitions (Detail)           XML    933K 
40: XML.R53     Investments in fixed maturity securities -           XML    603K 
                Investments in securities with fixed maturities                  
                (Detail)                                                         
25: XML.R54     Investments in fixed maturity securities -           XML    205K 
                Amortized cost and estimated fair value of                       
                securities with fixed maturities (Detail)                        
94: XML.R55     Investments in equity securities (Detail)            XML    770K 
91: XML.R56     Other investments (Detail)                           XML    449K 
46: XML.R57     Other Investments Narrative (Detail)                 XML   1.05M 
32: XML.R58     Investment gains and losses (Detail)                 XML    400K 
85: XML.R59     Receivables (Detail)                                 XML    767K 
23: XML.R60     Inventories (Detail)                                 XML    139K 
74: XML.R61     Goodwill and other intangible assets (Detail)        XML     88K 
71: XML.R62     Goodwill and other intangible assets - Intangible    XML    532K 
                assets (Detail)                                                  
90: XML.R63     Property, plant and equipment (Detail)               XML   1.07M 
86: XML.R64     Derivative contracts (Detail)                        XML    601K 
99: XML.R65     Derivative contracts - gains and losses (Detail)     XML    366K 
30: XML.R66     Supplemental cash flow information (Detail)          XML    370K 
45: XML.R67     Unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses           XML    350K 
                (Detail)                                                         
63: XML.R68     Notes payable and other borrowings (Detail)          XML    625K 
54: XML.R69     Notes payable and other borrowings - Narrative       XML   1.05M 
                (Detail)                                                         
64: XML.R70     Income taxes (Detail)                                XML    547K 
101: XML.R71     Dividend restrictions - Insurance subsidiaries       XML     99K  
                (Detail)                                                         
31: XML.R72     Fair value measurements - Financial Instruments      XML    774K 
                (Detail)                                                         
38: XML.R73     Fair value measurements - Financial assets and       XML   1.28M 
                liabilities measured and carried at fair value on                
                a recurring basis (Detail)                                       
34: XML.R74     Fair value measurements - Significant unobservable   XML    425K 
                inputs (Detail)                                                  
61: XML.R75     Common stock (Detail)                                XML    290K 
69: XML.R76     Common stock - roll-forward (Detail)                 XML    251K 
58: XML.R77     Pension plans (Detail)                               XML    728K 
51: XML.R78     Pension plans - fair value (Details)                 XML   1.24M 
29: XML.R79     Contingencies and Commitments (Detail)               XML    695K 
17: XML.R80     Business segment data (Detail)                       XML   5.75M 
62: XML.R81     Quarterly data (Detail)                              XML    391K 
44: XML.R82     Condensed Financial Information - Balance Sheets     XML    386K 
                (Detail)                                                         
57: XML.R83     Condensed Financial Information - Statements of      XML    708K 
                Earnings (Detail)                                                
79: XML.R84     Condensed Financial Information - Statements of      XML    571K 
                Cash Flows (Detail)                                              
75: XML.R85     Notes to Condensed Financial Information (Detail)    XML   1.18M 
93: EXCEL       IDEA Workbook of Financial Reports (.xls)            XLS   5.94M 
 9: EX-101.INS  XBRL Instance -- brka-20101231                       XML   6.08M 
11: EX-101.CAL  XBRL Calculations -- brka-20101231_cal               XML    276K 
12: EX-101.DEF  XBRL Definitions -- brka-20101231_def                XML   1.42M 
13: EX-101.LAB  XBRL Labels -- brka-20101231_lab                     XML   2.17M 
14: EX-101.PRE  XBRL Presentations -- brka-20101231_pre              XML   1.59M 
10: EX-101.SCH  XBRL Schema -- brka-20101231                         XSD    393K 
42: ZIP         XBRL Zipped Folder -- 0001193125-11-048914-xbrl      Zip    385K

‘XML’   —   IDEA XML File — Definitions and References

This Document is an XBRL XML File.

                                                                                                                                                                                
<DefinitionAndReference>
<Element Id="brka_ConvertiblePerpetualCapitalInstrumentReceivable">
<definition> Represents the remaining amount to be received on the redemption of the convertible perpetual capital instrument. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
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<Element Id="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivities">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_MarketableSecuritiesEquitySecuritiesContinuousUnrealizedLossPosition12MonthsOrLongerAggregateLosses">
<definition> This item represents the amount of unrealized losses related to equity securities that have been in an unrealized loss position for twelve months or longer. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_ScheduleOfReconciliationOfProjectedBenefitObligationsTextBlock">
<definition> Schedule of reconciliation of changes in projected benefit obligations. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_SegmentReportingReconcilingItemEliminationsAndOther">
<definition> Segment reporting reconciling item eliminations and other items relating to segment earnings. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_MarketableSecuritiesFixedMaturitiesUnrealizedGainAtReportingDate">
<definition> This item represents the total unrealized holding gain on marketable securities with fixed maturities, at reporting date. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanAmountsThatWillBeAmortizedFromAccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossInNextFiscalYear">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_WorkersCompensationDiscountPercentBeforeRateChange">
<definition> Percent discount applied to worker's compensation reserve liability to reduce the reserve to present value, before rate change. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
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<Element Id="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationConsiderationTransferredIncludingEquityInterestInAcquireeHeldPriorToCombination">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
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<Element Id="us-gaap_StockholdersEquity">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
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<Element Id="us-gaap_RevenueRecognitionPolicyTextBlock">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
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<Element Id="us-gaap_OtherIncome">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_ForeignCurrencyTransactionsAndTranslationsPolicyTextBlock">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_PreferredStockSharesOutstanding">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_NewAccountingPronouncementAdoptionOfSFAS160">
<definition> Amount of the effect of adoption of Statement of Financial Accounting Standard No. 160 (FAS No. 160), Noncontrolling Interests in Consolidated Financial Statements. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_MarketableSecuritiesFixedMaturitiesAfterOneThroughFiveYearsAmortizedCost">
<definition> This item represents marketable securities with fixed maturities, at cost, net of adjustments made for accretion, amortization, other-than-temporary impairments, and hedging, if any, which are expected to mature after one year and through five years from the balance sheet date. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
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<Element Id="us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalCommonStock">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_InterestExpense">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_MarketableSecuritiesFixedMaturitiesAfterOneThroughFiveYearsFairValue">
<definition> This item represents the fair value of marketable securities with fixed maturities which are expected to mature after one year and through five years from the balance sheet date. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_ScheduleOfGoodwillTextBlock">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_InterestPaidNet">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_InvestmentsInMarketableSecuritiesEquitySecuritiesDisclosureTextBlock">
<definition> This item represents the entire disclosure related to the investments in common stocks and other forms of securities that provide ownership interests in a corporation. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesOutstanding">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasic">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_GainLossOnInvestmentsExcludingOtherThanTemporaryImpairments">
<definition> This item represents the net total realized and unrealized gain (loss) included in earnings for the period as a result of selling or holding marketable securities categorized as trading, available-for-sale, or held-to-maturity, including the unrealized holding gain or loss of held-to-maturity securities transferred to the trading security category and the cumulative unrealized gain or loss which was included in other comprehensive income (a separate component of shareholders' equity) for available-for-sale securities transferred to trading securities during the period. Additionally, this item would include any gains or losses realized during the period from the sale of investments accounted for under the cost method of accounting. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_EquivalentSharesOutstandingClassA">
<definition> Class A equivalent shares outstanding. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_PercentageOfVotingInterestsAcquiredInNoncontrolling">
<definition> Percentage of voting equity interests acquired in the noncontrolling interest transaction. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionProFormaEarningsPerShareBasic">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_Assets">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_ProceedsFromCollectionOfLoansReceivable">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueInThreeYears">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_CashContributedToSubsidiaryToFundBusinessAcquisition">
<definition> The amount of cash contributed to a subsidiary to fund a business acquisition. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireOtherInvestments">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInLossAndLossAdjustmentExpenseReserve">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanExpectedFutureBenefitPaymentsInYearTwo">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanAmountsRecognizedInBalanceSheet">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInUnearnedPremiums">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentFaceAmount">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsTaxDeferredExpenseReservesAndAccrualsUnearnedPremiumsReserve">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanServiceCost">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_LongTermDebtMaturitiesRepaymentsOfPrincipalInRemainderOfCalendarYearEnd">
<definition> Amount of long-term debt maturing within the remaining months in the current calendar year-end following the date of the latest balance sheet presented in the financial statements, which may include maturities of long-term debt, sinking fund requirements, and other securities redeemable at fixed or determinable prices and dates. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesAcquisitions">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionPurchasePriceAllocationAssetsAcquiredLiabilitiesAssumedNet">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_PremiumsWrittenNetPropertyAndCasualty">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefitsThatWouldImpactEffectiveTaxRate">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_AssumedPremiumsEarnedLifeAndHealth">
<definition> Premiums earned for all life and health insurance assumed from other insurers as a result of reinsurance arrangements. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_PremiumsEarnedNetLifeAndHealth">
<definition> Premiums recognized as revenue in the period earned on all life and health insurance and reinsurance contracts after subtracting any amounts ceded to another insurer. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueInFiveYears">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_StockIssuedSharesStockSplits">
<definition> The number of authorized shares after an increase in the number of shares due to a stock split. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsAmortizationExpense">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_GuaranteeObligationsCurrentCarryingValue">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_NoncashOrPartNoncashAcquisitionNoncashFinancialOrEquityInstrumentConsiderationSharesIssued">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_FutureAmortizationExpenseYearOne">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_PaymentsToMinorityShareholdersAndProceedsFromPaymentsForOtherFinancingActivities">
<definition> The cash outflow to return capital to noncontrolled interest, which generally occurs when noncontrolling shareholders reduce their ownership stake (in a subsidiary of the entity). Additionally, the balance includes the net cash inflow (outflow) from other financing activities. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_InterestExpenseExcludingInterestAllocatedToOperatingBusinesses">
<definition> Interest expense, excluding interest allocated to operating businesses. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_PercentOfLoanBalancesEvaluatedCollectivelyForImpairment">
<definition> Percent of loan balances evaluated collectively for impairment. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionPercentageOfVotingInterestsAcquired">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="dei_EntityCommonStockSharesOutstanding">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_NoncashOrPartNoncashAcquisitionValueOfLiabilitiesAssumed">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
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<Element Id="us-gaap_StatutoryAccountingPracticesStatutoryCapitalAndSurplusBalance">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_GainOnInvestmentsExcludingOtherThanTemporaryImpairments">
<definition> This item represents the gross total realized and unrealized gain included in earnings for the period as a result of selling or holding marketable securities categorized as trading, available-for-sale, or held-to-maturity, including the unrealized holding gain of held-to-maturity securities transferred to the trading security category and the cumulative unrealized gain which was included in other comprehensive income (a separate component of shareholders' equity) for available-for-sale securities transferred to trading securities during the period. Additionally, this item would include any gains realized during the period from the sale of investments accounted for under the cost method of accounting. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_PublicUtilitiesPropertyPlantAndEquipmentConstructionWorkInProgress">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
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<Element Id="us-gaap_ScheduleOfStockByClassTextBlock">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_ConversionOfSharesFromOneClassToAnotherAndOther">
<definition> Changes in shares outstanding as a result of conversion from one class to another and other transactions occurring from time to time. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_ReconciliationOfTheChangeInGoodwillTextBlock">
<definition> Schedule showing the reconciliation of the change in the carrying value of goodwill. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
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<Element Id="us-gaap_InventoryRawMaterials">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_AccruedIncomeTaxes">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_PercentageOfFIFOInventory">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
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<Element Id="us-gaap_SegmentReportingDisclosureTextBlock">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
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<Element Id="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationGoodwill">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanFairValueOfPlanAssets">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_UndistributedForeignEarningsAmountForTaxDisclosure">
<definition> Amount of undistributed earnings of certain foreign subsidiaries for which no deferred income taxes have been established. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
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<Element Id="us-gaap_StockIssued">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
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<Element Id="dei_DocumentType">
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<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
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<Element Id="us-gaap_PaymentsForProceedsFromOtherInvestingActivities">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_RecordedUnconditionalPurchaseObligationDueInThirdYear">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_ReinsuranceRecoverablesAndDeferredCharges">
<definition> Represents the sum of a) The known and estimated amount recoverable as of the balance sheet date from reinsurers for claims paid or incurred by the ceding insurer and associated claims settlement expenses, including estimated amounts for claims incurred but not reported, and policy benefits, net of any related valuation allowance, and b) the excess of the estimated liabilities for claims and claim costs over the consideration received for retroactive reinsurance contracts as of the balance sheet date. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_NatureOfOperationsAndConsolidationPolicyTextBlock">
<definition> Describes the nature of a) an entity's business, including the major services it sells or provides, and b) an entity's accounting policy regarding the principles it follows in consolidating or combining the separate financial statements, including the principles followed in determining the inclusion or exclusion of subsidiaries or other entities in the consolidated or combined financial statements. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
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<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
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<Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanExpectedFutureBenefitPaymentsInFiveFiscalYearsThereafter">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_LoansNotesTradeAndOtherReceivablesDisclosureTextBlock">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeReclassificationOfDefinedBenefitPlansNetGainLossRecognizedInNetPeriodicBenefitCostBeforeTax">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_ScheduleOfDerivativeInstrumentsGainLossInStatementOfFinancialPerformanceTextBlock">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_DeferredTaxLiabilitiesDeferredChargesReinsuranceAssumed">
<definition> The amount as of the balance sheet date of the estimated future tax effects attributable to deferred charges reinsurance assumed, which are expensed for tax purposes but capitalized in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles, and which will reverse in future periods when amortization of such capitalized costs cannot be deducted for tax purposes. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_RecordedUnconditionalPurchaseObligationDueAfterFifthYear">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_AnnuitiesInterestRateLowEnd">
<definition> Minimum interest rate in the range of interest rates used to calculate future benefits to be paid to or on behalf of policyholders and related expenses less the present value of future net premiums using assumptions such as estimates of expected investment yields, mortality, morbidity, terminations and expenses, applicable at the time the insurance contracts are made and cost of settling insured claims and cost incurred in the claim settlement process of annuities. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_UnrealizedLossPosition12MonthsOrLongerAsPercentOfOriginalCostHigh">
<definition> The high range for individual securities which are in an unrealized loss position for twelve months or longer as a percent of the original cost of the security. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_FinancialInstrumentsOwnedOtherAtFairValue">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_ScheduleOfPremiumsWrittenAndEarnedTextBlock">
<definition> Schedule of premiums written and earned. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_MachineryAndEquipmentGross">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_FederalIncomeTaxExpenseBenefitContinuingOperations">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_IncomeTaxReconciliationBusinessCombinationHoldingGain">
<definition> The portion of the difference between total income tax expense (benefit) as reported in the Income Statement and the expected income tax expense (benefit) computed by applying the domestic federal statutory income tax rates to pretax income from continuing operations attributable to holding gains as a result of a business combination. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_DirectPremiumsWrittenLifeAndHealth">
<definition> Premiums written directly by insurer for all life insurance and health before adding contracts assumed from other insurers or subtracting any amounts assumed by other insurers. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_RetainedEarningsAccumulatedDeficit">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_ConvertiblePerpetualCapitalInstrumentRedemptionPrice">
<definition> Represents the redemption price of a convertible perpetual capital instrument. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_OtherInventoryPurchasedGoods">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_CededPremiumsEarnedPropertyAndCasualty">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_AmountOfSettlementRemittedToPlaintiff">
<definition> Remaining amount of settlement to be remitted to plaintiff after certain cost reimbursement. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_FiveYearScheduleOfMaturitiesOfParentCompanyRepaymentsOfPrincipleInYearTwo">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_StatutoryAccountingPracticesStatutoryAmountAvailableForDividendPayments">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_UnearnedPremiums">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_OtherOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTaxPortionAttributableToParent">
<definition> This element represents Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, for the period, which are not separately disclosed or provided for elsewhere in the taxonomy. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsTaxDeferredExpenseReservesAndAccrualsLossReserves">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_Goodwill">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsReceivableThereafter">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_PaymentsToAcquireMarketableSecuritiesFixedMaturities">
<definition> The cash outflow from purchases of investments in securities having predetermined or determinable maturity dates. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_MarketableSecuritiesFixedMaturitiesUnrealizedLossAtReportingDate">
<definition> This item represents the total unrealized holding loss on marketable securities with fixed maturities, at reporting date. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_ScheduleOfTaxProvisionByJurisdictionCategoryAndClassificationTextBlock">
<definition> Schedule of tax provision by jurisdiction category and by classification. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_SegmentReportingReconcilingItemsRevenue">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_IncurredClaimsPropertyCasualtyAndLiability">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_ScheduleOfSegmentCapitalExpendituresAndDepreciationTextBlock">
<definition> Schedule of capital expenditures and depreciation by segment. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_ExpenseRelatedToDistributionOrServicingAndUnderwritingFees">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_BusinessAcquisitionPurchasePriceAllocationNotesPayableAndOtherBorrowings">
<definition> The amount of acquisition cost of a business combination allocated to notes payable and other borrowings of the acquired entity. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_IncomeTaxReconciliationOtherAdjustments">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_StockAuthorizedPriorToSharesStockSplits">
<definition> The number of authorized shares before an increase in the number of shares due to a stock split. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_ScheduleOfInvestmentGainsLossesTextBlock">
<definition> Schedule of investment gains and losses. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivities">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeDefinedBenefitPlansTaxPortionAttributableToParent">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_GainLossOnInvestmentsAndGainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsNetPretax">
<definition> This element represents the sum of a) Net total realized and unrealized gain (loss) included in earnings for the period as a result of selling or holding marketable securities categorized as trading, available-for-sale, or held-to-maturity, including the unrealized holding gain or loss of held-to-maturity securities transferred to the trading security category and the cumulative unrealized gain or loss which was included in other comprehensive income (a separate component of shareholders' equity) for available-for-sale securities transferred to trading securities during the period. Additionally, this item would include any gains or losses realized during the period from the sale of investments accounted for under the cost method of accounting and losses recognized for other than temporary impairments of the subject investments, and b) Aggregate net gain (loss) on all derivative instruments recognized in earnings during the period, before tax effects. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_PensionAndOtherPostretirementDefinedBenefitPlansLiabilitiesCurrentAndNoncurrent">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_ScheduleOfDividendPaymentRestrictionsTextBlock">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeAvailableforsaleSecuritiesTaxPortionAttributableToParent">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_EntityWideDisclosureOnGeographicAreasRevenueFromExternalCustomersAttributedToEntitysCountryOfDomicilePercent">
<definition> Percent of revenues from external customers attributed to the entity's country of domicile. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestments">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_IncomeTaxReconciliationTaxExemptIncome">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_TermOfCertainSecuritiesInUnrealizedLossPositionNotRecognizedInEarnings">
<definition> The term over which certain securities were in an unrealized loss position and the related loss was not recognized in earnings. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_FutureAmortizationExpenseYearTwo">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_OtherInvestments">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_NotionalAmountOfDerivatives">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsReceivableCurrent">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireLoansReceivable">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_DerivativeFairValueOfDerivativeAssetAmountOffsetAgainstCollateral">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_IncomeTaxReconciliationIncomeTaxExpenseBenefitAtFederalStatutoryIncomeTaxRate">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="dei_AmendmentFlag">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_PremiumsEarnedNet">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsPolicyTextBlock">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_LocomotivesFreightCarsAndOtherEquipment">
<definition> Carrying amount as of the balance sheet date of long-lived, depreciable assets commonly used in the railroad industry relating to locomotives, freight cars and other related equipment. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_DirectPremiumsWrittenPropertyAndCasualty">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsLiabilitiesNet">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationDepreciationExpense">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_InvestmentOwnedClassOfWarrantOrRightExercisePriceOfWarrantsOrRights">
<definition> For investments owned, the exercise price of each class of warrants or rights outstanding. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_CostOfGoodsAndServicesSold">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_NewAccountingPronouncementOrChangeInAccountingPrincipleCumulativeEffectOfChangeOnEquityOrNetAssets">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_SalesRevenueNet">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_ScheduleOfNewAccountingPronouncementsPolicyTextBlock">
<definition> Describes an entity's accounting policy for new accounting pronouncements. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_CollateralAlreadyPostedAggregateFairValue">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_BusinessAcquisitionProFormaNetIncomeLossAttributableToParent">
<definition> The pro forma net income (loss) for the period attributable to the parent as if the business combination or combinations had been completed at the beginning of a period. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_StateAndLocalIncomeTaxExpenseBenefitContinuingOperations">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_ScheduleOfDebtMaturitiesDisclosureTextBlock">
<definition> Schedule of debt maturing during the next five years. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_PercentOfLoanBalancesPerforming">
<definition> Percent of loan balances that are performing. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_RegulatoryLiabilities">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_PropertySubjectToOrAvailableForOperatingLeaseGross">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_UseOfEstimatesTextBlock">
<definition> Provides an entity's explanation that the preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles requires the use of management estimates. Estimates used in the determination of carrying amounts of assets or liabilities, or in disclosure of gain or loss contingencies should be disclosed if known information available prior to issuance of the financial statements indicates that both of these criteria are met: (1) It is at least reasonably possible that the estimate of the effect on the financial statements of a condition, situation, or set of circumstances that existed at the date of the financial statements will change in the near term (less than one year from the date of issuance) due to one or more future confirming events, and (2) The effect of the change would be material to the financial statements. The disclosure should indicate the nature of the uncertainty and include an indication that it is at least reasonably possible that a change in the estimate will occur in the near term. Disclosure of the factors that cause the estimate to be sensitive to change also is encouraged. Entities also may identify those areas that are subject to significant estimates. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_DebtWeightedAverageInterestRate">
<definition> Reflects the calculation as of the balance-sheet date of the average interest rate weighted by the amount of total debt (short and long-term) outstanding by type or by instrument at that time. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_ScheduleOfNetFundedStatusOfPensionPlansTextBlock">
<definition> Schedule of net funded status of pension plans. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_Liabilities">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsReceivableInFiveYears">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquity">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_PublicUtilitiesPolicyTextBlock">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_DerivativeLiabilities">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationExpendituresForAdditionsToLongLivedAssets">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionProFormaInformationTextBlock">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_FutureAmortizationExpenseYearThree">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_PercentOfLoanBalancesWithPaymentStatusCurrent">
<definition> Percent of loan balances that are current as to payment status. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_IncreaseDecreaseInDeferredChargesReinsuranceAssumed">
<definition> The change during the reporting period in deferred charges reinsurance assumed. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_PaymentsToAcquireMarketableSecuritiesEquitySecurities">
<definition> The cash outflow from purchases of investments in common stocks and other forms of securities that provide ownership interests in a corporation. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTaxPortionAttributableToParent">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_ComprehensiveIncomeNetOfTaxAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_MinorityInterest">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_UnamortizedBalancesOfDeferredChargesReinsuranceAssumed">
<definition> Asset as of balance sheet date for the excess of estimated liabilities for claims and claim costs over the consideration received for retroactive reinsurance contracts </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_ProceedsFromRepaymentsOfShortTermDebt">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestmentsTextBlock">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_ReinsuranceRecoverablesGross">
<definition> The known and estimated amount recoverable as of the balance sheet date from reinsurers for claims paid or incurred by the ceding insurer and associated claims settlement expenses, including estimated amounts for claims incurred but not reported, and policy benefits. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_BusinessAcquisitionFundedThroughExistingCashBalancePercentage">
<definition> The percentage of the acquisition funded through existing cash balances. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_ProceedsFromDerivatives">
<definition> The cash inflow associated with derivative instruments. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTax">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanActualReturnOnPlanAssets">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedContributionPlanCostRecognized">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_InvestmentOwnedBalanceShares">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsAndHedgingActivitiesDisclosureTextBlock">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_MarketableSecuritiesFixedMaturitiesAfterFiveThroughTenYearsAmortizedCost">
<definition> This item represents marketable securities with fixed maturities, at cost, net of adjustments made for accretion, amortization, other-than-temporary impairments, and hedging, if any, which are expected to mature after five years and through ten years from the balance sheet date. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_MarketableSecuritiesEquitySecuritiesCostBasis">
<definition> For an unclassified balance sheet, this item represents the cost basis, net of adjustments made for accretion, amortization, other-than-temporary impairments, and hedging, if any, of investments in common and preferred stocks and other forms of securities that provide ownership interests in a corporation. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_IntangibleAssetsPolicyTextBlock">
<definition> Describes an entity's accounting policy for finite lived intangible assets and indefinite-lived intangible assets (that is, those intangible assets not subject to amortization). This accounting policy also may address: (1) the amortization method used (2) the useful lives of such assets (3) how the entity assesses and measures impairment of such assets. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_LongTermDebtMaturitiesRepaymentsOfPrincipalInYearTwoOfCalendarYearEnd">
<definition> Amount of long-term debt maturing in year two of the calendar year-end following the date of the latest balance sheet presented in the financial statements, which may include maturities of long-term debt, sinking fund requirements, and other securities redeemable at fixed or determinable prices and dates. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_SubsidiaryOrEquityMethodInvesteeCumulativePercentageOwnership">
<definition> Percentage of subsidiary's or equity method investee's stock owned by parent. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityRemainingBorrowingCapacity">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_ScheduleOfWeightedAverageInterestRateAssumptionsForProjectedBenefitObligationsAndNetPeriodicPensionExpenseTextBlock">
<definition> Schedule of weighted average interest rate assumptions for projected benefit obligations and net periodic pension expense. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_CededPremiumsWrittenPropertyAndCasualty">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_CargoAndFreightRevenueAndRegulatedAndUnregulatedOperatingRevenue">
<definition> The total amount of revenues from transporting cargo and freight between locations and the total regulated and unregulated operating revenues of utilities and energy businesses, and other revenues related to these activities. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_EquityMethodInvestments">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_RepaymentsOfLongTermDebt">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_PolicyholderBenefitsAndClaimsIncurredNet">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_DerivativeFairValueOfDerivativeLiability">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_ScheduleOfLiabilityForUnpaidClaimsAndClaimsAdjustmentExpenseTextBlock">
<definition> Schedule of activity in the reserve for settling insured claims and expenses incurred in the claims settlement process for the period. The estimated liability includes the amount of money that will be required for future payments of (a) claims that have been reported to the insurer, (b) claims related to insured events that have occurred but that have not been reported to the insurer as of the date the liability is estimated, and (c) claim adjustment expenses. Claim adjustment expenses include costs incurred in the claim settlement process such as legal fees; outside adjuster fees; and costs to record, process, and adjust claims. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_CostsAndExpenses">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_DirectPremiumsEarnedLifeAndHealth">
<definition> Premiums earned directly for all life and health insurance before adding contracts assumed from other insurers or subtracting any amounts assumed by other insurers. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_InventoryNet">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_InvestmentOwnedAtFairValue">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionPurchasePriceAllocationPropertyPlantAndEquipment">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_DerivativeFinancialInstrumentsLiabilitiesFairValueDisclosure">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_DeferredIncomeTaxExpenseBenefit">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_DerivativesPolicyTextBlock">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_MarketableSecuritiesFixedMaturitiesWithinOneYearFairValue">
<definition> This item represents the fair value of marketable securities with fixed maturities which are expected to mature within one year of the balance sheet date. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanAssumptionsUsedCalculatingNetPeriodicBenefitCostExpectedLongTermReturnOnAssets">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_LiabilityForAsbestosAndEnvironmentalClaimsNet">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsOther">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_AllowanceForLoanAndLeaseLossesWriteOffs">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_BusinessAcquisitionPurchasePriceAllocationIncomeTaxesPrincipallyDeferred">
<definition> The amount of acquisition cost of a business combination allocated to the sum of the carrying amounts as of the balance sheet date for a) payments made in advance for income taxes, which will be charged against earnings, b) income taxes previously overpaid to tax authorities representing refunds of over-payments or recoveries based on agreed-upon resolutions of disputes, c) the net cumulative amount for all deferred taxes arising from temporary differences between accounting income in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles and tax-basis income, and d) unpaid sum of the known and estimated amounts payable to satisfy all currently due domestic and foreign income tax obligations, assumed from the acquired entity. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_IncomeTaxReconciliationForeignIncomeTaxRateDifferential">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_CededPremiumsWrittenLifeAndHealth">
<definition> Premiums assumed for life and health insurance policies by another insurer as a result of reinsurance arrangements. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_GeneralAndAdministrativeExpense">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationStepAcquisitionEquityInterestInAcquireeRemeasurementGainOrLoss">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_ComprehensiveIncomeNetOfTax">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_InvestmentOwnedStatedDividendRatePercentagePreferredStock">
<definition> Dividend payment percentage rate for preferred stock. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_ScheduleOfIncomeTaxLiabilityTextBlock">
<definition> Schedule of income tax liability as of the balance sheet date. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_PercentageOfLIFOInventory">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDue">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationDisclosureTextBlock">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_IncomeTaxesPrincipallyDeferred">
<definition> Sum of the carrying amounts as of the balance sheet date for a) payments made in advance for income taxes, which will be charged against earnings, b) income taxes previously overpaid to tax authorities representing refunds of overpayments or recoveries based on agreed-upon resolutions of disputes, c) the net cumulative amount for all deferred taxes arising from temporary differences between accounting income in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles and tax-basis income, and d) unpaid sum of the known and estimated amounts payable to satisfy all currently due domestic and foreign income tax obligations. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_InvestmentOwnedClassOfWarrantOrRightTotalValueAtExercisePriceOfWarrantsOrRights">
<definition> For investments owned, the total value of each class of warrants or rights outstanding calculated by taking the exercise price times the number of warrants held. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_MultiemployerPlanPeriodContributions">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_NumberOfSharesObtainableFromConvertingOneShareFromOneClassToAnotherClass">
<definition> The number of shares obtainable from converting one share from one class to another share in another class. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_WorkersCompensationDiscountPercent">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionCostOfAcquiredEntityCashPaid">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_IntangibleAssetsDisclosureTextBlock">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_ScheduleOfCashFlowSupplementalDisclosuresTextBlock">
<definition> Schedule designated to encapsulate the entire footnote disclosure that provides information on the supplemental cash flow activities. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_ObligationEquityInterestAmount">
<definition> The aggregate cost to acquire equity interest under an agreement. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_ProceedsFromSaleOfMarketableSecuritiesFixedMaturities">
<definition> The cash inflow associated with the sale of investments in securities having predetermined or determinable maturity dates. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_IncomeTaxReconciliationStateAndLocalIncomeTaxes">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_MarketableSecuritiesEquitySecuritiesUnrealizedLossAtReportingDate">
<definition> This item represents the total unrealized holding loss on marketable equity securities, at reporting date. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_PreferredStockSharesAuthorized">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="dei_EntityCurrentReportingStatus">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_ScheduleofAmortizedCostAndEstimatedFairValueofSecuritieswithFixedMaturitiesByContractualMaturityDatesTextBlock">
<definition> Schedule of amortized cost and estimated fair value of securities with fixed maturities by contractual maturity dates. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_NatureOfOperationsBasisOfConsolidationUseOfEstimatesAndSignificantAccountingPoliciesTextBlock">
<definition> Represents disclosure of a) the nature of an entity's business, b) an entity's accounting policy regarding the principles it follows in consolidating or combining the separate financial statements, including the principles followed in determining the inclusion or exclusion of subsidiaries or other entities in the consolidated or combined financial statements, c) an entity's explanation that the preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles requires the use of management estimates, and d) an entity's significant accounting policies and accounting pronouncements to be adopted in the future. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_ScheduleOfDerivativeInstrumentsInStatementOfFinancialPositionFairValueTextBlock">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_IncomeTaxPolicyTextBlock">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingBasic">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_LiabilityForClaimsAndClaimsAdjustmentExpensePropertyCasualtyLiability">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="dei_EntityWellKnownSeasonedIssuer">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_CashDividendsPaidToParentCompanyByConsolidatedSubsidiaries">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentGross">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireBusinessesAndInterestInAffiliates">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_GoodwillPolicyTextBlock">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_RepaymentsOfOtherDebt">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_PremiumsEarnedNetPropertyAndCasualty">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_MinimumNumberOfTradingDays">
<definition> The minimum number of trading days in a consecutive period window, which will trigger an event. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueThereafter">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_NotesPayable">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_TrackStructureAndOtherRoadway">
<definition> Carrying amount as of the balance sheet date of long-lived, depreciable assets commonly used in the railroad industry relating to railway track structure and other roadway related assets. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_MarketableSecuritiesFixedMaturitiesWithoutSingleMaturityDateAmortizedCost">
<definition> This item represents marketable securities with fixed maturities, which do not have a single maturity date and which the Company has decided to disclose separately rather than allocating such cost, net of adjustments made for accretion, amortization, other-than-temporary impairments, and hedging, if any, over several maturity groupings. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_FiveYearScheduleOfMaturitiesOfParentCompanyRepaymentOfPrincipleInYearThree">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionProFormaRevenue">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentUsefulLifeMinimum">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_DiscountOnWorkersCompensationLiabilities">
<definition> Amount of discount related to workers' compensation liability. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueNewIssuesAndOther">
<definition> Value of new stock issued during the period and other transactions which are not separately disclosed or provided for elsewhere in the taxonomy. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_GoodwillPeriodIncreaseDecreaseExcludingAcquisitions">
<definition> The change during the reporting period in the carrying value of goodwill, excluding goodwill acquired in the period. The change could be the result of goodwill impairment during the period, goodwill written off related to the sale of a business or other adjustments to goodwill. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_EntityWideDisclosureOnGeographicAreasLongLivedAssetsInEntitysCountryOfDomicilePercent">
<definition> Percent of long-lived assets other than financial instruments, long-term customer relationships of a financial institution, mortgage and other servicing rights, deferred policy acquisition costs, and deferred tax assets, located in the entity's country of domicile. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentPolicyTextBlock">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_EquityMethodInvestmentOwnershipPercentage">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_NonTaxableExchangeOfInvestment">
<definition> The portion of the difference between total income tax expense (benefit) as reported in the Income Statement and the expected income tax expense (benefit) computed by applying the domestic federal statutory income tax rates to pretax income from continuing operations attributable to income that is exempt from income tax due to a non-taxable exchange of an investment. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingenciesDisclosureTextBlock">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_NotionalAmountOfUnwoundDerivatives">
<definition> Aggregate notional amount of unwound derivatives. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_BuildingsAndImprovementsGross">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_IncreaseDecreaseInIncomeTaxes">
<definition> The change during the period due to cash payments and receipts from taxing authorities for taxes that are based on the reporting entity's earnings and the change during the reporting period for deferred and other tax assets and liabilities. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanExpectedFutureBenefitPaymentsInYearThree">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_ProceedsFromRedemptionsAndMaturitiesOfMarketableSecuritiesFixedMaturities">
<definition> The cash inflow associated with redemption or maturity of investments in securities having predetermined or determinable maturity dates. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsTaxDeferredExpenseReservesAndAccrualsAccruedLiabilities">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_AccumulatedDepreciationDepletionAndAmortizationPropertyPlantAndEquipment">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetPurchasesSalesIssuancesSettlements">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_RangeOfTradingDays">
<definition> The range of days ("window") used to measure the number of trading days in a consecutive period, which will trigger an event. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_ScheduleOfDeferredTaxTextBlock">
<definition> Schedule of deferred taxes (assets and liabilities). </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_GainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsNetPretax">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_InvestmentOwnedClassOfWarrantOrRightNumberOfSecuritiesCalledByWarrantsOrRights">
<definition> For investments owned, the specified number of securities that each class of warrants or rights outstanding give the holder the right but not the obligation to purchase from the issuer at a specific price, on or before a certain date. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_ScheduleOfReconciliationOfChangesInPlanAssetsTextBlock">
<definition> Schedule of reconciliation of changes in plan assets. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_SellingGeneralAndAdministrativeExpense">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_UnsecuredDebt">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_LongTermDebtMaturitiesRepaymentsOfPrincipalInYearThreeOfCalendarYearEnd">
<definition> Amount of long-term debt maturing in year three of the calendar year-end following the date of the latest balance sheet presented in the financial statements, which may include maturities of long-term debt, sinking fund requirements, and other securities redeemable at fixed or determinable prices and dates. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_OtherDerivativesAtFairValueNet">
<definition> Fair value as of the balance sheet date of other derivative assets, net of derivative liabilities, which includes all such derivative instruments in hedging and nonhedging relationships that are recognized on the balance sheet. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_BusinessAcquisitionPurchasePriceAllocationLiabilitiesAssumedAndNetAssets">
<definition> The amount of acquisition cost of a business combination allocated to liabilities assumed and net assets. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_ScheduleOfOtherInvestmentsTextBlock">
<definition> Schedule of other investments. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_ExcessOfTheConsiderationOverNoncontrollingInterest">
<definition> The excess of the consideration over the carrying amount of the noncontrolling interest. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_NewAccountingPronouncementEffectOfChangeOnBalanceSheet">
<definition> Amount of the effect of adoption of a new accounting pronouncement. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsReceivableInFourYears">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_MaximumAmountOfSettlementForCostReimbursement">
<definition> Maximum amount of settlement amount to be remitted to reimburse certain costs of plaintiff. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_InventoryPolicyTextBlock">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_UnrealizedLossPosition12MonthsOrLongerAsPercentOfOriginalCostLow">
<definition> The low end of the range for unrealized losses as a percentage of original cost for individual securities which are in an unrealized loss position for twelve months or longer. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_OtherComprehensiveIncomeDefinedBenefitPlansNetGainLossAndOtherBeforeTax">
<definition> The aggregate net gain or loss recognized in other comprehensive income during the current period, before taxes. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_InvestmentOwnedNotesCouponRate">
<definition> For investments which are quantified by principal amount, the coupon rate of the note. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_InvestmentOwnedRedeemablePreferredStockAggregateRedemptionAmount">
<definition> For investments owned, the aggregate amount to be received by the entity upon redemption by the issuer. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_PremiumsWrittenNetLifeAndHealth">
<definition> Sum of a) Premiums written for all life insurance and reinsurance contracts after subtracting any amounts ceded to another insurer., and b) Premiums written for all health insurance and reinsurance contracts after subtracting any amounts ceded to another insurer. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeForeignCurrencyTransactionAndTranslationAdjustmentBeforeTaxPortionAttributableToParent">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueInTwoYears">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_LiabilityForAsbestosAndEnvironmentalClaimsRelatedToRetroactiveReinsuranceContracts">
<definition> Carrying amount as of the balance sheet date of reserves for the costs of settling insured claims and costs incurred in the claims settlement process attributable to asbestos and environmental claims assumed under retroactive reinsurance contracts. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="dei_EntityCentralIndexKey">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInOtherComprehensiveIncome">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_CashDividendsPaidToParentCompanyAndUndistributedEarningsFromConsolidatedSubsidiaries">
<definition> This element represents the sum of a) The aggregate cash dividends paid to the entity by consolidated subsidiaries, and b) At the close of the period, the undistributed earnings included in the statement of operations from consolidated subsidiaries. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOtherOperatingCapitalNet">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefit">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_CommonStockVotingRightsNumberSharesClassB">
<definition> The number of votes an owner is entitled per Class B share. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_ProceedsFromOtherDebt">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_PensionAndOtherPostretirementBenefitsDisclosureTextBlock">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_InvestmentsInMarketableSecuritiesFixedMaturitiesDisclosureTextBlock">
<definition> This item represents the entire disclosure related to the investments in securities having predetermined or determinable maturity dates. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_LiabilityForUnpaidClaimsAndClaimsAdjustmentExpenseNet">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_ForeignIncomeTaxExpenseBenefitContinuingOperations">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_LoansAndLeasesReceivableAllowance">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_AccountsPayableAndAccruedLiabilitiesCurrentAndNoncurrent">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_AllowanceForLoanAndLeaseLossesProvisionForLossNet">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_InvestmentOwnedRedeemablePreferredStockRedemptionPricePerShare">
<definition> For investments owned, the amount to be received per share by the entity upon redemption by the issuer. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_CommonStockThresholdPricePerShare">
<definition> Option to convert preferred stock when the common stock price exceeds a set threshold price per share. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_InvestmentOwnedBalancePrincipalAmount">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_ScheduleOfQuarterlyRevenuesAndEarningsTextBlock">
<definition> Schedule of quarterly revenues and earnings. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_DerivativeFairValueOfDerivativeAsset">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_AccretionOfDiscountIncludedInPriorYearsIncurredLosses">
<definition> Accretion of discount included in prior years' incurred losses. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_LiabilityForUnpaidClaimsAndClaimsAdjustmentExpenseBeforeForeignCurrencyAndAcquisitionAdjustmentsNet">
<definition> Liability as of the balance sheet date for amounts representing estimated cost of settling unpaid claims under the terms of the underlying insurance policies, less estimated reinsurance recoveries on such claims but before adjustments for foreign currency and acquisitions. This includes an estimate for claims which have been incurred but not reported. Claim adjustment expenses represent the costs estimated to be incurred in the settlement of unpaid claims. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_DerivativeAssets">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationConsiderationTransferred">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_InsurancePremiumAcquisitionCostsPolicyTextBlock">
<definition> Describes an entity's accounting policy for deferred acquisition costs related to insurance premiums. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_NetEarningsPerShareRatio">
<definition> Ratio representing the net earnings per equivalent Class A common share. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_InsuranceInvestmentIncome">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_LiabilityForUnpaidClaimsAndClaimsAdjustmentExpenseClaimsPaid">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueInFourYears">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_ScheduleOfBusinessAcquisitionsByAcquisitionTextBlock">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_CreditRiskDerivativesAtFairValueNet">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanInterestCost">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_ScheduleOfFairValueMeasurementsByMajorCategoriesOfPlanAssetsTextBlock">
<definition> This element represents the disclosure related to plan assets measured at fair value by major category. The disclosures contemplated herein include the fair value measurements at the reporting date by the level within the fair value hierarchy in which the fair value measurements in their entirety fall, segregating fair value measurements using quoted prices in active markets for identical assets (Level 1), significant other observable inputs (Level 2), and significant unobservable inputs (Level 3). </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_RegulatoryAssets">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_DerivativeWeightedAverageRemainingLife">
<definition> The weighted average remaining life for the derivative or group of derivatives. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsReceivableInThreeYears">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_LoansAndLeasesReceivableCommercial">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_InvestmentOwnedAtCost">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_EquityDerivativeIntrinsicValue">
<definition> Represents the undiscounted liability assuming the contracts are settled on their future expiration dates based on the index values at the most recent balance sheet date. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_PercentOfDerivativeLiabilityByNotionalAmountThatCannotBeSettledBeforeMaturityDateOfUnderlyingObligations">
<definition> The percent of derivative liability measured using the notional amount of derivative contracts which cannot be settled before the maturity dates of the underlying obligations. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_UnamortizedLoanCommitmentAndOriginationFeesAndUnamortizedDiscountsOrPremiumsConsumer">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_AllowanceForDoubtfulAccountsPremiumsAndOtherReceivables">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeInterestAndDividend">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_AccruedIncomeTaxesCurrent">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeForeignCurrencyTranslationAdjustmentTaxPortionAttributableToParent">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_ScheduleOfPremiumsAndOtherReceivablesNetTextBlock">
<definition> Schedule disclosing net premiums and other types of receivables due from other persons or entities. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromEquityMethodInvestments">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_OtherThanTemporaryImpairmentLossesInvestmentsPortionRecognizedInEarningsNet">
<definition> The amount of other than temporary impairment losses on equity securities, other than temporary impairment related to credit losses on debt securities, and other than temporary impairment losses on debt securities when the entity intends to sell the securities or it is more likely than not that the entity will be required to sell the securities before recovery of its amortized cost basis. Additionally, this item includes other than temporary impairment losses recognized during the period on investments accounted for under the cost method of accounting. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_IntangibleAssetsGrossCarryingAmount">
<definition> The gross carrying amount of intangible assets, including finite and indefinite lived intangible assets. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_LossOnInvestmentsExcludingOtherThanTemporaryImpairments">
<definition> This item represents the gross total realized and unrealized loss included in earnings for the period as a result of selling or holding marketable securities categorized as trading, available-for-sale, or held-to-maturity, including the unrealized holding loss of held-to-maturity securities transferred to the trading security category and the cumulative unrealized loss which was included in other comprehensive income (a separate component of shareholders' equity) for available-for-sale securities transferred to trading securities during the period. Additionally, this item would include any losses realized during the period from the sale of investments accounted for under the cost method of accounting. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_FurnitureAndFixturesAndOtherGross">
<definition> Carrying amount as of the balance sheet date of long-lived, depreciable asset commonly used in offices and stores and other. Examples include desks, chairs, and store fixtures and other items not individually reported. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_PercentOfLoanBalancesEvaluatedIndividuallyForImpairment">
<definition> Percent of loan balances evaluated individually for impairment. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_TraditionalLifeInterestRateLowEnd">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_FairValueByBalanceSheetGroupingTextBlock">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_LiabilityForUnpaidClaimsAndClaimsAdjustmentExpenseOpeningBalanceAdjustments">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanExpectedReturnOnPlanAssets">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_ExcessOfReplacementOrCurrentCostsOverStatedLIFOValue">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentUsefulLifeMaximum">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_TermOfCertainSecuritiesInUnrealizedLossPositionAndRecognizedInEarnings">
<definition> The term over which certain securities were in an unrealized loss position and the related loss was recognized in earnings. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_ReclassificationOfInvestmentAppreciationInNetEarningsTaxPortionAttributableToParent">
<definition> Tax effect of the reclassification adjustment from Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) to net earnings, which are attributable to the parent entity. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanAssetsForPlanBenefitsCurrentAndNoncurrent">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_ProceedsFromSaleOfMarketableSecuritiesEquitySecurities">
<definition> The cash inflow associated with the sale of investments in common stocks and other forms of securities that provide ownership interests in a corporation. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_IncomeTaxDisclosureTextBlock">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_LiabilityForUnpaidClaimsAndClaimsAdjustmentExpenseForeignCurrencyTranslation">
<definition> Reflects the net gain (loss) from converting unpaid claims and claims adjustments of consolidated entities which are stated in a foreign currency into the currency used in the financial statements. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_FairValueDisclosuresTextBlock">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_DefinedBenefitPlanAssumptionsUsedCalculatingBenefitObligationExpectedLongTermReturnOnAssets">
<definition> An assumption as to the rate of return on plan assets reflecting the average rate of earnings expected on the funds invested or to be invested. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_CededPremiumsEarnedLifeAndHealth">
<definition> Premiums assumed and earned by another insurer as a result of reinsurance arrangements. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanActuarialNetGainsLosses">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanBusinessCombinationsAndAcquisitionsBenefitObligation">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_Depreciation">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_MarketableSecuritiesFixedMaturitiesContinuousUnrealizedLossPosition12MonthsOrLongerAggregateLosses">
<definition> This item represents the amount of unrealized losses related to securities with fixed maturities that have been in an unrealized loss position for twelve months or longer. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_CondensedFinancialInformationOfParentCompanyOnlyDisclosureTextBlock">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_ScheduleOfNetPeriodicPensionExpenseTextBlock">
<definition> Schedule of net periodic pension expense. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_IncomeTaxesPaidNet">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsNet">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_DeferredTaxLiabilitiesUnrealizedGainsLossesOnAvailableForSaleSecuritiesAndOtherComprehensiveIncome">
<definition> Includes (a) The amount as of the balance sheet date of the estimated future tax effects arising from unrealized gains or losses on investments in debt and equity securities categorized as available for sale. Such unrealized holding gains/losses increase/decrease the carrying value of the asset recorded for financial reporting purposes, but not for tax purposes. (b) The amount as of the balance sheet date of the estimated future tax effects attributable to the difference between the tax basis and the basis in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in debt and equity securities categorized as available for sale. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_IndefiniteLivedIntangibleAssets">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_RecordedUnconditionalPurchaseObligationDueInFourthYear">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="dei_CurrentFiscalYearEndDate">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="dei_DocumentFiscalPeriodFocus">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_DefinedBenefitPlanBenefitObligationUnfunded">
<definition> The projected benefit obligation for unfunded plans (non-qualified U.S. plans and non-U.S. plans). </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanBusinessCombinationsAndAcquisitionsPlanAssets">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_LoansAndLeasesReceivableNetReportedAmount">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_FutureAmortizationExpenseYearFive">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_AssumedPremiumsEarnedPropertyAndCasualty">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_InterestsAcquiredAndOtherTransactions">
<definition> Changes in shareholder equity as a result of redeeming or purchasing the interests of non-controlling shareholders. Additionally, this element represents other transactions which are not separately disclosed or provided for elsewhere in the taxonomy. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_ProceedsFromPaymentsForOtherFinancingActivities">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInReceivables">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_ShortTermBorrowings">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_LeaseAndRentalExpense">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_IncomeTaxReconciliationDeductionsDividends">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsDerivativeInstruments">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentDisclosureTextBlock">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_MarketableSecuritiesFixedMaturitiesAmortizedCost">
<definition> For an unclassified balance sheet, this item represents investments in debt securities having predetermined or determinable maturity dates, net of adjustments made for accretion, amortization, other-than-temporary impairments and hedging, if any. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_DerivativeFairValueOfDerivativeLiabilityAmountOffsetAgainstCollateral">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_CurrentIncomeTaxExpenseBenefit">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_CostsOfServicesAndOperatingExpenses">
<definition> The aggregate costs related to services rendered and total operating expenses. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_FairValueAssetsAndLiabilitiesMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputReconciliationTextBlock">
<definition> This element represents, for the fair value measurement of assets and liabilities using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3), a reconciliation of the beginning and ending balances, separately presenting changes during the period attributable to the following: (1) total gains or losses for the period (realized and unrealized), segregating those gains or losses included in earnings (or changes in net assets), and a description of where those gains or losses included in earnings (or changes in net assets) are reported in the statement of income (or activities); (2) purchases, sales, issuances, and settlements (net); and (3) transfers in and transfers out of Level 3 (for example, transfers due to changes in the observability of significant inputs). </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_LoansAndLeasesReceivableConsumer">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_InvestmentOwnedUnrealizedAppreciationDepreciationNetAtReportingDate">
<definition> This element represents the unrealized net excess or deficiency of the fair value of an investment (security, contract) over or under its cost (face amount, notional amount), respectively, at reporting date. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="dei_EntityFilerCategory">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_EffectOfExchangeRateOnCashAndCashEquivalents">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_UndistributedEarningsFromConsolidatedSubsidiaries">
<definition> At the close of the period, the undistributed earnings included in the statement of operations from consolidated subsidiaries. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_MarketableSecuritiesFixedMaturitiesAfterTenYearsAmortizedCost">
<definition> This item represents marketable securities with fixed maturities, at cost, net of adjustments made for accretion, amortization, other-than-temporary impairments, and hedging, if any, which are expected to mature after ten years from the balance sheet date. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="dei_EntityRegistrantName">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_LiabilityForUnpaidClaimsAndClaimsAdjustmentExpenseIncurredClaimsCurrentYear">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_ConstructionInProgressGross">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanAssumptionsUsedCalculatingNetPeriodicBenefitCostRateOfCompensationIncrease">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_AmortizationOfDeferredChargesReinsuranceAssumed">
<definition> Amount of deferred charge amortization for retroactive reinsurance contracts incepting prior to the current period. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_InvestmentsInAndAdvancesToAffiliatesAmountOfEquity">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_DeferredTaxLiabilitiesPropertyPlantAndEquipment">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_QuarterlyFinancialInformationTextBlock">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_IncreaseDecreaseInDerivativeContractAssetsAndLiabilities">
<definition> The change during the period in derivative contract assets and liabilities due to cash payments and receipts and changes in the value of derivative instruments. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanAccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeBeforeTax">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_AdditionalCollateralAggregateFairValue">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_AdjustmentsNoncashItemsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesOther">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_ScheduleOfInsurancePremiumsWrittenByGeographicRegionTextBlock">
<definition> Schedule of insurance premiums written by geographic region. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeNet">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_OtherFinancialServicesCosts">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_BusinessAcquisitionFundedThroughNewDebtPercentage">
<definition> The percentage of the acquisition funded through new debt. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationOperatingIncomeLoss">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionPurchasePriceAllocationLiabilitiesAssumed">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="dei_DocumentPeriodEndDate">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentNet">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanNetPeriodicBenefitCost">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_PaymentsForDerivatives">
<definition> The cash outflow associated with derivative instruments. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_PremiumsAndOtherReceivablesNet">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_Land">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_ScheduleOfMaturitiesOfParentCompanyRepaymentsOfPrincipleAfterYearFourAndThereafter">
<definition> Parent company notes payable, maturing at year four and thereafter. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_StatutoryAccountingPracticesGoodwillAmortizationYears">
<definition> The number of years for amortizing goodwill under statutory rules. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_BusinessCombinationStepAcquisitionEquityInterestInAcquireeShares">
<definition> In a business combination achieved in stages, this element represents the acquisition-date number of shares in the acquiree held by the acquirer immediately before the acquisition date. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_DeferredChargesReinsuranceAssumedPolicyTextBlock">
<definition> Describes an entity's accounting policy for deferred charges related to reinsurance assumed. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_DebtDisclosureTextBlock">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsAccumulatedAmortization">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_DiscountedWorkersCompensationLiabilities">
<definition> Discounted workers' compensation reserve amount. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_AccountsReceivableGross">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_BusinessAcquisitionPurchasePriceAllocationOtherAssets">
<definition> The amount of acquisition cost of a business combination allocated to other assets of the acquired entity. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_DeferredTaxLiabilitiesOther">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateStatedPercentage">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetValue">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_TransferInvestments">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_ScheduleOfInventoryTextBlock">
<definition> Schedule related to inventories. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_LongTermDebtMaturitiesRepaymentsOfPrincipalInYearFiveOfCalendarYearEnd">
<definition> Amount of long-term debt maturing in year five of the calendar year-end following the date of the latest balance sheet presented in the financial statements, which may include maturities of long-term debt, sinking fund requirements, and other securities redeemable at fixed or determinable prices and dates. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_NoncashOrPartNoncashAcquisitionDebtAssumed">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanContributionsByEmployer">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_InvestmentPolicyTextBlock">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_FairValueMeasurementsPolicyTextBlock">
<definition> Describes an entity's accounting policies for measuring fair value. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanEstimatedFutureEmployerContributionsInNextFiscalYear">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanAssumptionsUsedCalculatingBenefitObligationDiscountRate">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesAuthorized">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_TraditionalLifeInterestRateHighEnd">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_DeferredTaxLiabilities">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_OtherAssets">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_RecordedUnconditionalPurchaseObligationDueInSecondYear">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_ConvertiblePerpetualCapitalInstrumentRedemptionPriceInstallment">
<definition> Represents the installment payment amount for redemption of a convertible perpetual capital instrument. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_LongTermDebtMaturitiesRepaymentsOfPrincipalInYearFourOfCalendarYearEnd">
<definition> Amount of long-term debt maturing in year four of the calendar year-end following the date of the latest balance sheet presented in the financial statements, which may include maturities of long-term debt, sinking fund requirements, and other securities redeemable at fixed or determinable prices and dates. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="dei_DocumentFiscalYearFocus">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_ScheduleOfShortAndLongTermOutstandingDebtDisclosureTextBlock">
<definition> Schedule of short and long term outstanding debt. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_ScheduleOfSegmentRevenuesAndEarningsBeforeIncomeTaxesNoncontrollingInterestsAndEquityMethodEarningsTextBlock">
<definition> Schedule of revenue and earnings before income taxes, noncontrolling interests and equity method earnings by segment and the reconciliation to the entity's consolidated revenue and earnings before income taxes, noncontrolling interests and equity method earnings. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivities">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanExpectedFutureBenefitPaymentsInYearFive">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_MarketableSecuritiesEquitySecurities">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsBeforeIncomeTaxesMinorityInterestAndIncomeLossFromEquityMethodInvestments">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_ScheduleOfStockRollforwardByClassTextBlock">
<definition> This element is used to roll-forward outstanding shares of each class of stock. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_FutureAmortizationExpenseYearFour">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_PreferredStockSharesIssued">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTextBlock">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanBenefitsPaid">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_PublicUtilitiesPropertyPlantAndEquipmentGenerationOrProcessingAndTransmissionAndDistribution">
<definition> Sum of period end amount of property, plant and equipment (PPE) related to a) generation or processing owned by public utility, and b) transmission and distribution owned by public utility. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_ScheduleOfPensionPlanAmountsRecognizedInAccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeTextBlock">
<definition> Schedule of pension plan amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_PublicUtilitiesPropertyPlantAndEquipmentPipeline">
<definition> Period end amount of property, plant and equipment (PPE) related to pipeline assets. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_MarketableSecuritiesFixedMaturities">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_PremiumsReceivableGross">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_CommonStockValue">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_LiabilityForUnpaidClaimsAndClaimsAdjustmentExpenseIncurredClaimsPriorYears">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_MarketableSecuritiesFixedMaturitiesAfterFiveThroughTenYearsFairValue">
<definition> This item represents the fair value of marketable securities with fixed maturitiess which are expected to mature after five years and through ten years from the balance sheet date. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_GainLossOnInvestmentsAndGainLossOnDerivativeInstrumentsNetOfTax">
<definition> This element represents the sum of a) Net total realized and unrealized gain (loss) included in earnings for the period as a result of selling or holding marketable securities categorized as trading, available-for-sale, or held-to-maturity, including the unrealized holding gain or loss of held-to-maturity securities transferred to the trading security category and the cumulative unrealized gain or loss which was included in other comprehensive income (a separate component of shareholders' equity) for available-for-sale securities transferred to trading securities during the period. Additionally, this item would include any gains or losses realized during the period from the sale of investments accounted for under the cost method of accounting and losses recognized for other than temporary impairments of the subject investments, and b) Aggregate net gain (loss) on all derivative instruments recognized in earnings during the period, after tax effects. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_SubsequentEventAmount">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionPurchasePriceAllocationCurrentAssetsCashAndCashEquivalents">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanAssumptionsUsedCalculatingNetPeriodicBenefitCostDiscountRate">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_InventoryFinishedGoods">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_MarketableSecuritiesFixedMaturitiesWithoutSingleMaturityDateFairValue">
<definition> This item represents the fair value of marketable securities with fixed maturities, which do not have a single maturity date and which the Company has decided to disclose separately, rather than allocating such cost over several maturity groupings. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_BusinessAcquisitionSharesOfVotingInterestsAcquired">
<definition> Number of voting equity interests acquired in the business combination. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_LiabilityForFuturePolicyBenefits">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_LiabilityForUnpaidClaimsAndClaimsAdjustmentExpenseAcquisitions">
<definition> Reflects the net adjustment to liability for unpaid cliams and claims adjustment expense as a result of acquisitions. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_CashFlowSupplementalDisclosuresTextBlock">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_InvestmentOwnedStatedDividendRatePercentageCapitalInstrument">
<definition> Dividend payment percentage rate for capital instrument. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_LifeAnnuityAndHealthInsuranceBenefitsPolicyTextBlock">
<definition> Describes an entity's accounting policy for life, annuity, and health insurance benefits. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_ReclassificationOfInvestmentAppreciationInNetEarningsBeforeTaxPortionAttributableToParent">
<definition> Reclassification adjustment from Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) to net earnings, which are attributable to the parent entity. Includes reclassification due to write-downs, sales and other. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_Revenues">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_InventoryWorkInProcessAndOtherInventory">
<definition> Represents the a) Carrying amount as of the balance sheet date of merchandise or goods which are partially completed, are generally comprised of raw materials, labor and factory overhead costs, and which require further materials, labor and overhead to be converted into finished goods, and which generally require the use of estimates to determine percentage complete and pricing, and b) Carrying amount as of the balance sheet date of inventories of a nature not otherwise specified in the taxonomy. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_FairValueAssetsAndLiabilitiesMeasuredOnRecurringBasisTextBlock">
<definition> This element represents the disclosure related to assets and liabilities, including financial instruments measured at fair value that are classified in stockholders' equity, if any, that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis. The disclosures contemplated herein include the fair value measurements at the reporting date by the level within the fair value hierarchy in which the fair value measurements in their entirety fall, segregating fair value measurements using quoted prices in active markets for identical assets (Level 1), significant other observable inputs (Level 2), and significant unobservable inputs (Level 3). </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_RecordedUnconditionalPurchaseObligationDueInFifthYear">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_ScheduleOfInvestmentsInMarketableSecuritiesEquitySecuritiesTextBlock">
<definition> Schedule related to the investments in common stocks and other forms of securities that provide ownership interests in a corporation. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_LossesAndLossAdjustmentExpensesPolicyTextBlock">
<definition> Describes an entity's accounting policy for provision for benefits, claims and claims settlement expenses incurred during the period for property and casualty insurance net of the effects of contracts assumed and ceded. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_FiveYearScheduleOfMaturitiesOfParentCompanyRepaymentsOfPrincipleWithinOneYear">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_DefinedBenefitPlanExpensesAndOther">
<definition> The amount of increase or decrease in the plan assets attributed to expenses and other items which are not otherwise defined in the taxonomy or which are not separately disclosed. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanExpectedFutureBenefitPaymentsInYearFour">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquirePropertyPlantAndEquipment">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_AssumedPremiumsWrittenPropertyAndCasualty">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_AnnuitiesInterestRateHighEnd">
<definition> Maximum interest rate in the range of interest rates used to calculate future benefits to be paid to or on behalf of policyholders and related expenses less the present value of future net premiums using assumptions such as estimates of expected investment yields, mortality, morbidity, terminations and expenses, applicable at the time the insurance contracts are made and cost of settling insured claims and cost incurred in the claim settlement process of annuities. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanBenefitObligation">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_CommonStockParOrStatedValuePerShare">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_SegmentReportingSegmentRevenue">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_GoodwillAcquiredDuringPeriod">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_MarketableSecuritiesFixedMaturitiesAfterTenYearsFairValue">
<definition> This item represents the fair value of marketable securities with fixed maturities which are expected to mature after ten years from the balance sheet date. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_ScheduleOfIncomeTaxReconciledToFederalStatutoryAmountTextBlock">
<definition> Schedule showing the reconciliation of hypothetical income tax expense (benefit) for the period computed by applying the domestic federal statutory tax rates to the effective income tax expense (benefit) amounts. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionPurchasePriceAllocationAssetsAcquired">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_MarketableSecuritiesEquitySecuritiesUnrealizedGainAtReportingDate">
<definition> This item represents the total unrealized holding gain on marketable equity securities, at reporting date. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_LiabilityForUnpaidClaimsAndClaimsAdjustmentExpenseClaimsPaidPriorYears">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_LiabilityForUnpaidClaimsAndClaimsAdjustmentExpenseClaimsPaidCurrentYear">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_MinorityInterestIncreaseFromBusinessAcquisitions">
<definition> Increase in noncontrolling interest as a result of new business acquisitions. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisRegulatoryAssetsAndLiabilities">
<definition> This element represents amounts recorded to regulatory assets and liabilities arising from net derivative contract liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis using unobservable inputs (Level 3). </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationAssets">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_EquityIndexPutOptionsDerivativesAtFairValueNet">
<definition> Fair value as of the balance sheet date of equity index put option derivative assets, net of derivative liabilities, which includes all such derivative instruments in hedging and nonhedging relationships that are recognized on the balance sheet. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_ScheduleOfGoodwillAndIdentifiableAssetsTextBlock">
<definition> Schedule of goodwill and identifiable assets by segment. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_InventoryDisclosureTextBlock">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeDefinedBenefitPlansAdjustmentBeforeTaxPortionAttributableToParent">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanAccumulatedBenefitObligation">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_BusinessAcquisitionPurchasePriceAllocationLiabilitiesAccountsPayableAndOtherLiabilities">
<definition> The amount of acquisition cost of a business combination allocated to accounts payable and other liabilities of the acquired entity. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_DefinedBenefitPlanOtherExpense">
<definition> Other expense associated with a defined benefit pension plan which are not otherwise defined in the taxonomy or which are not separately disclosed. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_IndependentPowerPlantsAndOtherAssets">
<definition> Period end amount of total gross PPE related to independent power plants and other energy related assets. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueCurrent">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_PaymentsForInvestmentsAdvancesAndAcquisitionOfInterestInSubsidiaries">
<definition> Represents the net intercompany lending with subsidiaries and purchases of subsidiaries. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_ScheduleOfInvestmentsInMarketableSecuritiesFixedMaturitiesTextBlock">
<definition> Schedule related to the investments in securities having predetermined or determinable maturity dates. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsPeriodIncreaseDecrease">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_DeferredPolicyAcquisitionCostsNet">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_LiabilityForFuturePolicyBenefitsAndUnpaidClaimsDisclosureTextBlock">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_ProfitLoss">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_StockSplitConversionRate">
<definition> Element represents the conversion rate to reflect a stock split. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_DirectPremiumsEarnedPropertyAndCasualty">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_NetInterestExpenseOnIntercompanyBorrowings">
<definition> Represents the net interest expense from/to affiliates on intercompany borrowing arrangements. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_ReceivablesPolicyTextBlock">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="dei_EntityPublicFloat">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_ImpairmentLossAsPerecentOfOriginalCost">
<definition> Impairment loss as a percentage of original cost for individual securities that an other than temporary charge was recorded. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTaxPeriodIncreaseDecrease">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="dei_EntityVoluntaryFilers">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_OtherInvestmentsDisclosureTextBlock">
<definition> This item represents the entire disclosure related to other investments not otherwise specified in the taxonomy. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_NetIncomeLossAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_ScheduleOfLoansAndLeasesReceivableNetReportedAmountTextBlock">
<definition> Schedule disclosing the carrying amount of all categories of loans and leases held in portfolio, net of unearned income and the allowance for losses on loans and leases. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_AssumedPremiumsWrittenLifeAndHealth">
<definition> Premiums assumed for all life and health insurance assumed from other insurers as a result of reinsurance arrangements. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_LossContingencySettlementAgreementAmount">
<definition> The amount to which the entity agreed to pay in a settlement agreement which resolves the legal matter. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionPurchasePriceAllocationGoodwillAmount">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefits">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetTransfersNet">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_RecordedUnconditionalPurchaseObligationDueWithinOneYear">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsReceivableInTwoYears">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeAvailableforsaleSecuritiesAdjustmentBeforeTaxPortionAttributableToParent">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_SubsidiaryOrEquityMethodInvesteeCumulativePercentageOwnershipAfterAllTransactions">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_LiabilityForUnpaidClaimsAndClaimsAdjustmentExpenseIncurredClaims">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_DerivativeFairValueOfDerivativeNet">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_MarketableSecuritiesFixedMaturitiesWithinOneYearAmortizedCost">
<definition> This item represents marketable securities with fixed maturities, at cost, net of adjustments made for accretion, amortization, other-than-temporary impairments, and hedging, if any, which are expected to mature within one year of the balance sheet date. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_OtherIncomeTaxLiabilities">
<definition> Sum of the carrying amount as of the balance sheet date of other income tax related liabilities not otherwise specified in the taxonomy. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="brka_InvestmentOwnedRedeemablePreferredStockRedemptionRatio">
<definition> For investments owned, the per share conversion ratio to be used by the entity upon redemption. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
</DefinitionAndReference>

2 Subsequent Filings that Reference this Filing

  As Of               Filer                 Filing    For·On·As Docs:Size             Issuer                      Filing Agent

 5/10/11  SEC                               UPLOAD10/16/17    1:45K  Berkshire Hathaway Inc.
 5/10/11  SEC                               UPLOAD10/16/17    1:55K  Berkshire Hathaway Inc.
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Filing Submission 0001193125-11-048914   –   Alternative Formats (Word / Rich Text, HTML, Plain Text, et al.)
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