I Was at the 80/20 factry today to pick up an order that I had placed through a authorized 80/20 distributer. I was treated like I was thier most valued customer. They showed me thier seconds and returns inventory and was allowed to buy anything that we needed. They also let me know that they have a E-Bay store. ( http://stores.ebay.com/8020-Inc-Garage-Sale ) The deals are great and the quality is top notch.
Thanks this will be really helpful information
I’ve been using 80/20 extruded aluminum for the past 4-5 years now. I’ve typically received a 50% discount through my distributor, and would imagine that any robotics team could/should receive the same. The 50% discount is actually cheaper than the discounted items on ebay (usually…)
I would certainly ask your distributer if you qualify for a discount, 'cause this stuff isn’t cheap. 
Overall, I’ve been extremely happy with their customer service, the quality of their product, and most importantly, the ease of using their product with our robot designs.
YMMV, best of luck!
BEN
Our distributor gave us 25% off. I wasnt gonna argue for 50%. However much i like 80/20 I am dissapointed one of our adults ordered it snail mail and it was gonna take 7 days to get it here 
Become best friends with your distributor. We ordered from them our first 2 years and finally gave them a presentation a year ago (05). Last year we got all 8020 for free and a free cart designed by them and built with 8020. Now our sponsor is still donating all 8020 and any other product that he distributes. We’re actually going to his office tonight to work on some designs and to make a Bill of Materials.
Indeed, becoming friends with the distributor helps. Our distributor offered our team a significant discount (I’d have to go dig out the quote sheets, but at least 25%). It also helps, however, that the company I work at for my day job buys a lot of 80/20.
Other than the original Ebay site, who do you all purchase your extruded aluminum from? We are looking to buy some for our season and want to make sure we’re getting good product!
We go through our local Toledo, OH distributor (Midwest Fluid Power) who is our main sponsor and donates a ton of free material.
Beth, go to www.8020.net and use the Distributor Locator tool to find your local distributor. They will be able to get you anything you need. Turn-around time is a couple days, plus shipping. Remember to ask about an educational discount.
Good Luck,
BEN